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7. Investigate the reactions of carboxylic acidsReaction 2 - Comparing the reaction of magnesium

A carboxylic acid is one which contains -COOH as its functional group. In comparison to mineral acids, carboxylic acids show some similarities, but also, some important differences.

Part of Chemistry (Single Science)Prescribed practicals

Reaction 2 - Comparison of the reaction of magnesium with both acids

Comparison of the reaction of magnesium with hydrochloric and ethanoic acids

Remember that an acid reacts with a metal to produce hydrogen gas.

Apparatus and chemicals

  • Boiling tubes
  • Delivery tube
  • Test tube
  • Basin
  • Boiling tube rack
  • Measuring cylinder (25 cm3) safety glasses, wooden splint
  • 1 mol/dm3 hydrochloric acid
  • 1 mol/dm3 ethanoic acid
  • 2 x 1 cm strips of magnesium ribbon

Method

  1. Fill the basin and test-tube with water, let the test tube rest on the bottom of the basin
  2. Measure 20 cm3 of ethanoic acid using the measuring cylinder and add to the boiling tube
  3. Repeat step 2 with hydrochloric acid, place both boiling tubes in the boiling tube rack
  4. Add the magnesium strip to each boiling tube 鈥 ensuring that the Mg is fully immersed in the acid, allow the reaction to proceed for 10 seconds and record your observations.