Question

question 6 (5 points)
listen
why does an \acid spill kit\ often contain baking soda?
a) baking soda is a weaker acid, which will raise the solutions ph.
b) baking soda is a strong base that will react violently with the acid.
c) baking soda will absorb the acid so that it can be swept up.
d) baking soda is a weak base and will neutralize the acid.

Explanation:

• Option A: Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a base, not an acid, so this is incorrect.
• Option B: Baking soda is a weak base, not a strong base, and it reacts moderately, not violently, with acids, so this is incorrect.
• Option C: Baking soda does not just absorb the acid; it neutralizes it through a chemical reaction, so this is incorrect.
• Option D: Baking soda ($\ce{NaHCO_3}$) is a weak base. In an acid - base reaction (neutralization reaction), a base reacts with an acid to form a salt, water, and often a gas (in the case of bicarbonate and acid, $\ce{CO_2}$ is produced). This reaction helps to neutralize the spilled acid, making it safer to clean up.

Answer:

D. Baking soda is a weak base and will neutralize the acid.