8.2 - Identification of Common Gases

What is the test for hydrogen?

• Uses a burning splint held at the open end of a test tube of the gas.

• Hydrogen burns rapidly with a pop sound.

What is the test for oxygen?

• Uses a glowing splint inserted into a test tube of the gas.

• The splint relights in oxygen.

What is the test for carbon dioxide?

• Uses an aqueous solution of calcium hydroxide (lime water).

• When carbon dioxide is shaken with or bubbled through limewater the limewater turns milky (cloudy).

What is the test for chlorine?

• uses litmus paper. When damp litmus paper is put into chlorine gas the litmus paper is bleached and turns white.