Chapter 18, Problem 58A

Geology When a geologist adds a few drops of HCl to a rock, gas bubbles form. What might the geologist conclude about the nature of the gas and the rock?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The nature of gas and rock is to be determined when a few drops of $\text{H}\text{C}\text{l}$ are added to it.

Concept introduction:

The gas which comes out with brisk effervescence is carbon dioxide gas.

Answer to Problem 58A

Gas is carbon dioxide and rock is calcium carbonate.

Explanation of Solution

When $\text{H}\text{C}\text{l}$ is added on a rock, the reaction is given by:

$\text{C}\text{a}\text{C}{\text{O}}_3+2\text{H}\text{C}\text{l}\to \text{C}\text{a}\text{C}{\text{l}}_2+{\text{H}}_2\text{O}+\text{C}{\text{O}}_2$

The bubbles are produced due to the reaction of calcium carbonate with $\text{H}\text{C}\text{l}$ which produces carbon dioxide.

Conclusion

Thus, gas bubbles is carbon dioxide and rock is made of calcium carbonate.