This beaker contains a dilute solution of hydrochloric acid, HCl.

 

A few magnesium turnings are added to the acid.

 

The magnesium reacts rapidly with the acid to produce bubbles of hydrogen gas, H2, and magnesium salts.

Click here for a movie.

Let's see how the strength of the acid affects the rate of this reaction by collecting the hydrogen formed in a balloon.


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