Topic: Am I producing HCL acid? (Read 3364 times)

Frozensolid · « **on:** November 21, 2008, 01:26:31 PM »

Ok. I have two jars connected with a salt bridge. In both jars I have sodium chloride dissolved into water. I have DC 4.4 volts/ .88 amps running through two large copper electrodes. The current doesn't seem to be strong enough to cause anything to bubble, but i know something is being formed because it can dissolve aluminum and can clean old copper. Is hydrochloric acid being formed or am I in over my head?

Borek · « **Reply #1 on:** November 21, 2008, 03:01:38 PM »

Invest few bucks in universal pH strips. Check pH and you will know the answer.

Frozensolid · « **Reply #2 on:** November 21, 2008, 11:06:47 PM »

wouldn't the PH be dependant on the concentration and not necessarily on the actual product of the reaction?

Borek · « **Reply #3 on:** November 22, 2008, 04:02:13 AM »

There are not mot many acids and bases that can be produced in this solution - HCl and NaOH are the most likely suspects. Starting solution has pH around neutral (probably slightly acidic due to the presence of carbon dioxide, unless you start with hard tap water). Any change in pH will be an obvious sign what is going on.

Frozensolid · « **Reply #4 on:** November 24, 2008, 10:35:55 PM »

is it possible that hydrochlorous acid is being produced and is being broken down into oxygen and HCL???

Borek · « **Reply #5 on:** November 25, 2008, 03:47:53 AM »

Can't tell it won't happen, but even if, that's because Cl^- may get oxidized during electrolysis to Cl₂, then Cl₂ reacts with water.

Topic: Am I producing HCL acid? (Read 3364 times)

Frozensolid

Am I producing HCL acid?

Borek

Re: Am I producing HCL acid?

Frozensolid

Re: Am I producing HCL acid?

Borek

Re: Am I producing HCL acid?

Frozensolid

Re: Am I producing HCL acid?

Borek

Re: Am I producing HCL acid?

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