Question

For dilution of concentrated acid, we should add

• A. water into concentrated acid.
• B. concentrated acid into water.
• C. first water into acid and then more acid.
• D. Both (a) and (b) are correct.

Answer 1

The correct option is B concentrated acid into water.

A strong acid should be added steadily to water since this results in the release of a large amount of energy (an exothermic process). The heat is dissipated much more effectively throughout the water, because of its high specific heat capacity. On the other hand, adding water to concentrated acid makes the solution to boil violently, splashing concentrated acid out of the container.