Question

I have a plastic gallon jug in my shop for 15+ yrs,that I marked "sulfuric or hydrocloric?? How can I tell which acid it is and what are the proper disposal methods? Thanks

Answer 1

Chloride Ion Test. When a solution of silver nitrate is added to a solution containing chloride
ions and nitric acid, a heavy bluish white precipitate of silver chloride forms. The equation for
the reaction is:
\[AG^{+}_{(aq)} + Cl^{-}_{(aq)}\rightarrow AgCl_{(s)}\ White\ Precipitate\]

Answer 2

Sulfate Ion Test. A white precipitate of barium sulfate is formed in the presence of
hydrochloric acid when a solution of barium chloride is added to a solution containing sulfate
ions. The equation for the reaction is:
\[Ba^{+2}_{(aq)} + SO_4^{2-}\_{(aq)} \rightarrow BaSO_4\ White Precipitate\]

Answer 3

HCl disposal
HCl can be combined with baking soda to form salt water and CO2.

NaHCO3 + HCl = NaCl + H2O + CO2

Answer 4

have to go now

Answer 5

zpup, thanks very much for your in-depth answer. I never took chemistry--Just a woodworker, your answers are way over my head. Is there a very simple test--appearance, smell, color etc?? Thanks