NIOS Class 10 Science and Technology Activity 8.4 Acids, Bases and Salts

This activity explains the reaction of acids with metal oxides and also tells the nature of metal oxides.

 

NIOS Class 10 Science and Technology Project File

This activity is based on the NIOS Class 10 Science and Technology chapter 8: Acids, Bases, and Salts.

Aim of the activity

To study the chemical reaction of copper oxide with dilute hydrochloric acid.

Materials Required

   1. Copper oxide 

   2. Dilute hydrochloric acid

   3. Beaker

   4. Glass rod

   5. Safety gloves and goggles

Procedure

We take a clean beaker and add a small amount of black copper powder to it, and pour about 10 mL of dilute hydrochloric acid into the beaker.

 Now, we stir continuously till the black powder disappears and observe the changes.

Observation

Copper powder remains undissolved initially, but it dissolves when the solution is stirred. The solution turns bluish green.

Explanation

Copper oxide is a metal oxide and basic in nature. Copper oxide reacts with hydrochloric acid to produce copper chloride(salt) and water. This is a neutralization reaction, like an acid-base reaction.

CuO + 2HCl →CuCl₂ + H₂O

Conclusion

 This activity demonstrates that metal oxides are basic in nature. Metal oxide reacts with HCl to produce salt and water, which is a neutralization reaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

   1. Why does the solution turn bluish green in this activity?

Answer – Due to the formation of copper chloride, the solution turns bluish green.

   2. What type of chemical reaction takes place in this activity?

Answer – Neutralization reaction

   3. Can this reaction take place with other metal oxides?

Answer – Yes

   4.  Are all metal oxides basic in nature?

Answer- No, some metal oxides like Aluminium oxide and zinc oxides are amphoteric(both acidic and basic) in nature