College

Which combination of chip size and acid concentration will result in the fastest reaction between calcium carbonate chips and hydrochloric acid?

A. Small, 1.0M
B. Small, 1.5M
C. Large, 1.5M
D. Medium, 1.0M

Answer :

To determine which combination of chip size and acid concentration results in the fastest reaction between calcium carbonate chips and hydrochloric acid, we need to consider two factors that affect the rate of reaction:

1. Surface Area: Smaller chip sizes provide a larger surface area for the acid to react with, which generally increases the rate of the reaction.

2. Concentration: A higher concentration of hydrochloric acid means there are more acid molecules available to react with the calcium carbonate, which also increases the reaction rate.

Based on these factors:

- Small chips and 1.5M concentration (Option B): This combination has the smallest chip size, providing the largest surface area, and the highest acid concentration, which together will result in the fastest reaction rate.

- Other options:
- Small, 1.0M (Option A): While it has the benefit of small chips for a larger surface area, the lower concentration of 1.0M will slow the reaction compared to 1.5M.
- Large, 1.5M (Option C): The higher concentration is beneficial, but the large chip size reduces the surface area available, slowing down the reaction.
- Medium, 1.0M (Option D): Both a medium-chip size and lower concentration will result in a slower reaction than the other options.

Considering both factors, the fastest reaction will occur with small chips and 1.5M concentration, which is Option B.