Explain which type of chemical reaction occurs when mixing toilet bowl cleaner (i.e. The Works) and aluminum foil.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
When toilet bowl cleaner, such as The Works, is mixed with aluminum foil, a single displacement reaction (also known as a redox reaction) occurs. In this reaction, the aluminum metal (Al) displaces hydrogen ions (H⁺) from the acidic toilet cleaner, resulting in the release of hydrogen gas (H₂).
Chemical Equation:
The reaction can be represented as follows:
[
2Al(s) + 6HCl(aq) \rightarrow 2AlCl_3(aq) + 3H_2(g)
]
Here’s what happens step by step:
- Aluminum as a Reducing Agent: Aluminum metal (Al) acts as a reducing agent. It loses electrons (oxidation) and is transformed into aluminum ions (Al³⁺).
- Hydrogen Ion (H⁺) Reduction: The hydrogen ions (H⁺) from the hydrochloric acid in the toilet cleaner accept the electrons released by aluminum and are reduced to form hydrogen gas (H₂).
- Formation of Aluminum Chloride: The aluminum ions (Al³⁺) produced in the oxidation step combine with chloride ions (Cl⁻) from the hydrochloric acid to form aluminum chloride (AlCl₃).
This reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases energy in the form of heat. As a result, the mixture may become hot, and the hydrogen gas produced can cause bubbling or even lead to a pressure buildup if contained. This is why caution should be exercised when performing such reactions.
Explanation of the Reaction:
The key players in this reaction are the aluminum foil and the acidic toilet bowl cleaner. The Works and similar products often contain hydrochloric acid (HCl), which is a strong acid. When aluminum foil comes into contact with the cleaner, the aluminum undergoes oxidation, losing electrons. The electrons are transferred to hydrogen ions from the acid, reducing them to hydrogen gas. The visible bubbling and release of gas are evidence of the reaction taking place.
In summary, mixing toilet bowl cleaner and aluminum foil results in a single displacement redox reaction where aluminum displaces hydrogen from the acid, producing hydrogen gas and aluminum chloride.