Investigating the role of water in acidity

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Try this practical or demonstration to explore the importance of water for acidity using hydrogen chloride and methylbenzene. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

In this experiment, students compare the properties of a solution of hydrogen chloride in water – ie hydrochloric acid – with the properties of a solution of hydrogen chloride in a non-aqueous solvent such as methylbenzene (toluene).

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