The aluminum is cut into tiny pieces and the KOH had been added with 80% water.
2006-12-21 13:44:46 · 6 answers · asked by nc123135 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Nothing.
Aluminum is less reactive than potassium, and will not displace the potassium ions in the solution.
Consult an activity series for other problems like this, such as:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Single_displacement_reaction
http://www.ausetute.com.au/displace.html
2006-12-21 13:52:44 · answer #1 · answered by ruadhdarragh 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
First, the KOH dissociates into K+ and OH-. Then, the aluminum reacts with the hydroxide ion to form Al(OH)3. Further the OH is replaced in the reaction by the K+ ions breaking down water molecules. This leads to the evolution of Hydrogen gas which will be given off.
Also, you get a lot of heat with this. You will often see aluminum flakes in drain openers (the granule type) that react in just this way when put in water.
2006-12-21 21:57:52 · answer #2 · answered by xaviar_onasis 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋
you will see the bubbles, and a white precipitate for a short time. After that, the precipitate will gradually dissolve in the solution.
2Al + 6H2O ==> 2Al(OH)3 (precipitate) + 3H2 (bubbles)
Al(OH)3 + KOH ==> KAlO2 (potassium aluminiate) + H2O
it is because Al(OH)3 can act as a weak acid when it reacts with strong bases such as NaOH, KOH
believe me because I have seen it happen
2006-12-22 08:47:11 · answer #3 · answered by James Chan 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
No reaction will happen..
Al is less reactive than K according to Reactivity Series...
peace
vixklen
2006-12-22 09:17:56 · answer #4 · answered by vixklen 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
usually it will form aluminum hydroxide and solid potassium (single replacement reaction).
2006-12-21 21:54:58 · answer #5 · answered by Kitty 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Al(s) + 3KOH(aq) ---> 3K(s) + Al(OH)3(aq)
2006-12-21 21:54:23 · answer #6 · answered by sft2hrdtco 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋