Magnesium is a chemical element with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. It is a shiny gray solid which bears a close physical resemblance to the other five elements in the second column (group 2, or alkaline earth metals) of the periodic table: all group 2 elements have the same electron configuration in the outer electron shell and a similar crystal structure.
Hydrochloric acid is a strong acid that is commonly used in labs for a variety of purposes, including the digestion of proteins and the testing of pH. It is a clear, colorless liquid with a pungent, corrosive smell.
In this experiment, we will be reacting magnesium with hydrochloric acid to produce hydrogen gas and magnesium chloride. The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is:
Mg + 2HCl -> MgCl2 + H2
To set up the experiment, we will need the following materials:
- Magnesium ribbon or powder
- Hydrochloric acid
- Beaker or test tube
- Heat source (such as a bunsen burner)
- Gas collecting tube or balloon
To begin the experiment, we will first measure out a small amount of magnesium and place it in the beaker or test tube. Next, we will carefully add hydrochloric acid to the beaker or test tube, being sure to avoid spilling or splashing the acid.
Once the acid has been added, we will place the beaker or test tube on the heat source and observe the reaction. As the magnesium reacts with the hydrochloric acid, it will produce hydrogen gas, which will be visible as bubbles rising to the surface of the solution.
At the same time, the reaction will also produce magnesium chloride, a white solid that will form in the bottom of the beaker or test tube.
To collect the hydrogen gas produced during the reaction, we can attach a gas collecting tube or balloon to the top of the beaker or test tube. As the hydrogen gas is produced, it will be collected in the tube or balloon.
Once the reaction is complete and all of the magnesium has been consumed, we can turn off the heat source and carefully remove the gas collecting tube or balloon. We can then observe the collected hydrogen gas and measure its volume, if desired.
Overall, this experiment is a simple and easy way to demonstrate the reactivity of magnesium and the production of hydrogen gas. It also provides an opportunity to observe the properties of the products produced during the reaction, including the appearance and physical properties of magnesium chloride.