A student added water to concentrated acid. Why is this dangerous?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Because intense heat may cause acid splashing
Diluting concentrated acid is strongly exothermic because hydration of acid particles releases a large amount of heat. If a small volume of water is poured into the acid, the water can heat rapidly, boil locally and eject corrosive acid droplets. Therefore option B is correct. Water does not become a base, and the acid does not instantly freeze or become neutral. The safer rule is to add acid slowly to a larger volume of water while stirring.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Because intense heat may cause acid splashing
Why is this the correct answer?
Diluting concentrated acid is strongly exothermic because hydration of acid particles releases a large amount of heat. If a small volume of water is poured into the acid, the water can heat rapidly, boil locally and eject corrosive acid droplets. Therefore option B is correct. Water does not become a base, and the acid does not instantly freeze or become neutral. The safer rule is to add acid slowly to a larger volume of water while stirring.
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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