Hydrogen & Water: Preparation, Properties, and Fountain Experiment

Preparation of Hydrogen

Hydrogen is a non-metallic element that is commonly prepared in the laboratory and industry. Let's explore how it's done:

Laboratory Preparation

• Method: Reacting a dilute acid with a metal such as zinc.
• Equation: $$\text{Zn} + 2\text{HCl} \rightarrow \text{ZnCl}_2 + \text{H}_2$$
• Apparatus: Conical flask, delivery tube, and a gas jar.
• Safety: Ensure proper ventilation and avoid open flames.

Industrial Preparation

• Steam Reforming: Methane reacts with steam at high temperatures.
• Equation: $$\text{CH}_4 + \text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{CO} + 3\text{H}_2$$
• Water Gas Shift Reaction: Further reaction with steam to increase hydrogen yield.
• Equation: $$\text{CO} + \text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{CO}_2 + \text{H}_2$$

Properties of Hydrogen

• Physical Properties: Colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas.
• Density: Less dense than air, allowing it to rise.
• Chemical Properties: Highly flammable, burns with a pale blue flame.
• Reactivity: Reacts with oxygen to form water: $2\text{H}_2 + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow 2\text{H}_2\text{O}$

Fountain Experiment

The fountain experiment demonstrates the solubility of gases in water:

• Setup: A round-bottomed flask containing ammonia gas is inverted over a beaker of water.
• Observation: Water rushes into the flask, creating a fountain effect.
• Explanation: Ammonia dissolves in water, reducing pressure inside the flask.