04. Spot the hazard

In this experiment you will be comparing three different acids. You will find out which is the most hazardous by looking at how well they react.

Apparatus

• • test tube rack

  • test tubes

  • acids X, Y & Z

  • magnesium ribbon

  • marble chips

  • thermometer

Method

A Fill a test tube about one third full of acid X.

B Put one of the pieces of magnesium into the tube.

C Watch what happens. Write your observations in the table.

D When the fizzing stops, measure the temperature of the liquid.

E Put acid Y into a second tube.

F Put another piece of magnesium into this tube.

G Now put acid Z into a third tube.

H Do the experiment again using acid Z. Record your results.

I When the tests are finished, pour all the liquids away.

J Refill the three tubes with fresh acids X, Y and Z.

K Do the tests again, using marble chips instead of pieces of magnesium.

Recording your results

Considering your results

• 1. I think the most hazardous acid was...

  2. The least hazardous acid was...

  3. I thought this because...