A student added water to concentrated acid instead of adding concentrated acid to water. Why is this dangerous?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Excess heat may cause splashing
Dilution of a concentrated acid with water is an exothermic process, so heat is released. If a small quantity of water is poured into concentrated acid, the water may heat suddenly, boil, and produce acidic splashes. These splashes can cause severe burns. Therefore, the safe laboratory rule is to add concentrated acid slowly to a larger volume of water while stirring. Option A correctly describes the danger; the other choices contradict the heat-producing process.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Excess heat may cause splashing
Why is this the correct answer?
Dilution of a concentrated acid with water is an exothermic process, so heat is released. If a small quantity of water is poured into concentrated acid, the water may heat suddenly, boil, and produce acidic splashes. These splashes can cause severe burns. Therefore, the safe laboratory rule is to add concentrated acid slowly to a larger volume of water while stirring. Option A correctly describes the danger; the other choices contradict the heat-producing process.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Acids, Bases, and Salts.
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