Question

Equal lengths of magnesium ribbons are taken in test tubes A and B. Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is added to test tube A while acetic acid (CH3COOH) is added to test tube B. In which test tube, will the fizzing occur more vigorously and why?

Answer 1

We know that hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a strong acid and acetic acid (CH3COOH) is a weak acid. Being a strong acid, HCI solution contains a much greater amount of hydrogen ions in it. Due to this, the fizzing will occur more vigorously in test tube A. The fizzing is due to the evolution of H2 gas which is formed by the action of acid on the magnesium ribbon.