Question

While mixing $H_2{SO}_4$ with water which of the following precautions should be taken?

• A. Never add acid to water
• B. Never add water to acid
• C. Add the lighter heavier liquid
• D. Avoid sunlight

Answer 1

The correct option is B Never add water to acid

The hydration reaction of sulfuric acid is highly exothermic and dilution should always be performed by adding the acid to the water rather than the water to acid because the reaction is in an equilibrium that favors the rapid protonation of water addition of acid to water ensures that the acid is the limiting reagent.