Question

A Magnesium ribbon was cleaned with steel wool and used in the following set up. Wet sand was heated before Magnesium ribbon.

1. Explain the following:
   • Sand was heated first before heating Magnesium ribbon
   • Magnesium ribbon was cleaned with steel wool 
2. Name gas R
3. Write an equation for the reaction taking place in the combustion tube
4. Name the method used to collect gas R

Answer 1

1.    
   • to generate steam for – driving air from apparatus; react with Magnesium
   • Remove layer of Magnesium oxide to allow Magnesium to combine with steam
2. Hydrogen
3. Mg_(s) + H₂O_(g)→MgO_(s) + H_2(g)
4. Over water method