Question

When dissolving a metal in sulfuric acid, hydrogen, a highly flammable gas, is given off. You are dissolving equal amounts of different metals to compare the volume of hydrogen gas produced. For safety purposes, your teacher tells you to wear an apron, gloves, and goggles. Which of the following safety procedures would also be needed?

A. Avoid sparks or open flames.
B. Wear a gas mask.
C. Work away from direct sunlight.

Answer 1

The best answer is a. avoid sparks or open flames. This is because hydrogen is a highly flammable material which is why it is used in many applications as fuel. If a significant amount of hydrogen is released into the air (without trapping the hydrogen), hydrogen molecules can easily reach open flames and be ignited.