Reaction Between Nitrogen (II) Oxide and Oxygen
A photo shows three round bottom flasks connected by glass tubing with the first flask containing blue liquid and the second and third flasks remaining empty. The second photo shows the first flask nearly depleted of blue liquids, the middle flask with blue liquid, and less blue liquid in the third flask. The flasks each sit on a stand.
Description: One flask is filled with oxygen and the other with nitric oxide. When they are mixed, reddish-brown nitrogen dioxide is formed. Nitrogen dioxide dissolves in water, and the reaction between the two pulls in water from a third flask. The stoichiometry of this reaction is revealed by how much water enters each flask. The results demonstrate the stoichiometry of the reaction.
Source: Shakhashiri, B.Z. Chemical Demonstrations: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry
Year: 1985 Vol: 2 Page: 167
Keywords: Nitrogen (II) Oxide, Nitric Acid, Oxygen, Water, Stoichiometry
Rating: 
Hazard: High
- Oxidizing gases
- Serious eye damage
- Skin corrosion hazard
- Acute toxicity hazard – inhalation
- Pressurized gases
Effectiveness: Average
- Time to results is medium
- Poor reliability
- Good connection from demo to course material
- Mild effects are seen by audience
- Results are observable with guidance
- Primary effect is observed
Difficulty: Medium
- Simple manipulations for most to perform
- Use of scientific equipment
- Some intermediate steps to results
- Use of toxic reagents
- Use of sealed system
Safety Precautions:
- Eye protection required
- Gloves required
- Lab coat recommended
- Downdraft hood or lab hood required
- Avoid exposure to mists, gases, or vapors
Class: Main Group Chemistry
Division: General
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