Question

How could you verify that you produced carbon dioxide in your combustion reaction? 2. what indication did you have that nh3 was produced in your decomposition reaction? 3. if you did not neutralize the saturated citric acid before you poured it down the drain describe the potential consequences to the plumbing and the environment?

Answer 1

1) Carbon dioxide is a gas, so when $CO_{2}$ is evolved in the reaction, it appears as bubbles. The gas released extinguishes the fire and it can turn lime water milky.

$Ca(OH)_{2} (aq) + CO_{2}(g) ----> CaCO_{3}(s) +H_{2}O(l)$

2) When $NH_{3}$ is released in a decomposition reaction we can identify by the strong pungent smell of the gas released.

3) Saturated citric acid can cause corrosion of the metal layers present in the pipes. So, before draining out any acid it is neutralized so that the pipes and other plumbing works do not get damaged leading to leaks in the drainage system.