In the science lab, hydrochloric acid is usually stored in glass or plastic containers. Why must it never be stored in a metal container? Explain.
Question
In the science lab, hydrochloric acid is usually stored in glass or plastic containers. Why must it never be stored in a metal container? Explain.
Solution
Hydrochloric acid should never be stored in a metal container because it is a strong acid and has the ability to corrode or even dissolve many metals.
Here's a step-by-step explanation:
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Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a strong acid, which means it fully dissociates into its ions (H+ and Cl-) in solution.
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Many metals react with these H+ ions. The metal atoms lose electrons to the H+ ions and become positively charged metal ions. This process is known as oxidation.
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The metal ions then dissolve in the solution, leading to the corrosion or even dissolution of the metal container.
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This reaction can also produce hydrogen gas, which can cause the container to burst if it is not vented properly.
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Therefore, to prevent damage to the container and potential safety hazards, hydrochloric acid is usually stored in glass or plastic containers, which are not affected by the acid.
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