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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.

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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:

  1. Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a strong acid, which means it fully dissociates into its ions (H+ and Cl-) in solution.

  2. 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.

  3. The metal ions then dissolve in the solution, leading to the corrosion or even dissolution of the metal container.

  4. This reaction can also produce hydrogen gas, which can cause the container to burst if it is not vented properly.

  5. 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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