* Zinc chloride (ZnCl₂) : This is a white, soluble salt that forms in the solution.
* Hydrogen gas (H₂): This is a colorless, odorless, and flammable gas that bubbles up out of the solution.
The reaction is a single displacement reaction, where the more reactive zinc displaces hydrogen from the hydrochloric acid. Here's the balanced chemical equation:
Zn(s) + 2HCl(aq) → ZnCl₂(aq) + H₂(g)
You can observe this reaction by seeing the vigorous bubbling of hydrogen gas and the gradual dissolving of the zinc metal. The solution will also become slightly warm due to the heat released during the reaction.
