Reactions of acids and metal carbonates

Apparatus

• 25cm³ measuring cylinder

• 10cm³ measuring cylinder

• Boiling tube

• Test-tube

• Disposable pipette/dropper

• Test-tube rack

• Hydrochloric acid

• Calcium carbonate

• Limewater

Method

1. Measure 15cm³ hydrochloric acid into the boiling tube using measuring cylinder

2. Measure 3cm³ limewater using small measuring cylinder into test tube

3. Keep tubes side by side in rack

4. Add calcium carbonate to acid in boiling tube

5. Using pipette, collect gas produced by opening and closing above reaction

6. Once collected bubble through limewater and record observations

Observations

• Gas produced

• Fizzing

• White solid disappears

• Colourless solution formed

• Limewater turns from colourless to milky (carbon dioxide)

Equation

acid + metal carbonate → salt + water + carbon dioxide

Error

collect gas efficiently/ quickly using pipette to avoid leakage

Safety

• safety goggles to protect eyes from splashes

• handle in well ventilated area/ fume cupboard

• avoid skin contact with hydrochloric acid using gloves