Clarify the cause of selecting dil. HCl instead of dil. H$_2$SO$_4$ during laboratory preparation of carbon dioxide. What tests do you need to perform before entering into well to prevent from the suffocation?
Solution
In the lab preparation of carbon dioxide (\(\rm CO_{2}\)), dilute hydrochloric acid (\(\rm HCl \)) is chosen over dilute sulphuric acid (\(\rm H_{2}SO_{4} \)) because \(\rm H_{2}SO_{4} \) can form an insoluble layer of calcium sulphate (\(\rm CaSO_{4} \)) when it reacts with calcium carbonate (\(\rm CaCO_{3} \)). This layer stops the reaction, limiting \(\rm CO_{2}\) production. Dilute \(\rm HCl \) , however, reacts smoothly with \(\rm CaCO_{3} \) to produce a steady release of \(\rm CO_{2}\) gas without forming any obstructive by-products.
The tests needed to be performed before entering into well to prevent from the suffocation are:
- Oxygen Test: Lower a burning candle or flame into the well to check for oxygen. If the flame extinguishes quickly, it indicates a lack of oxygen, which could lead to suffocation.
- \(\rm CO_{2}\) Test: Lower a container with limewater into the well. If the limewater turns milky, it shows high \(\rm CO_{2}\) levels, which could be dangerous for breathing.
These tests are essential for safety to avoid suffocation risks due to low oxygen or high \(\rm CO_{2}\) levels in confined spaces like wells.