Question

during a lab experiment, a beaker of hydrochloric acid was accidentally knocked over. following correct laboratory safety procedures, everyone moved back and the teacher was notified of the spill. what is the next step to follow in the clean-up of this spill? a base should be used to neutralize the liquid. towels should be used to wipe up the liquid. water should be used to dilute the liquid. cat litter should be used to absorb the liquid.

Explanation:

Hydrochloric acid is an acid. To clean up an acid spill, a base (a substance with basic properties) is used to neutralize it through an acid - base neutralization reaction. Using towels (option B) or cat litter (option D) won't neutralize the acid, and using water (option C) only dilutes it, not neutralizes it, so the correct next step is to use a base to neutralize the liquid.

Answer:

A. A base should be used to neutralize the liquid.