Reaction Between Nitrogen (II) Oxide and Oxygen
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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