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Which gas is usually liberated when an acid reacts with a metal? Illustrate with an example. How will you test for the presence of this gas?
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: September 25th, 2023
Hydrogen gas is usually liberated when an acid reacts with a metal. An example is Zn (s) + 2 HCl (aq) → ZnCl2 (aq) + H2(g). The presence of hydrogen gas can be tested by placing a lighted splint near the mouth of the test tube.
Table of content
Reaction of an acid with a metal
- A salt is created when an acid and a metal react.
- All acids contain hydrogen, however this hydrogen is displaced and released as hydrogen gas.
Acids + Metals → Salt + Hydrogen gas
Example:
Zinc metal reacts with diluted HCl to form hydrogen gas. Zn (s) + 2 HCl (aq) → ZnCl2 (aq) + H2(g)
Check for hydrogen gas presence:
If hydrogen is present, a lit splint placed close to the test tube’s mouth ignites with a squeaky pop. Hydrogen is the first and most basic of all elements in the universe. It is also the lightest element in the periodic table, and 90% of all atoms in the universe are hydrogen atoms.
Summary:
Which gas is usually liberated when an acid reacts with a metal? Illustrate with an example. How will you test for the presence of this gas?
When an acid and a metal interact, hydrogen gas is frequently released. Among them is Zn (s) + 2 HCl (aq) → ZnCl2 (aq) + H2(g). By putting a lit splint close to the test tube’s mouth, it is possible to determine whether hydrogen gas is present.