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  • Aluminum and Sulfuric Acid Reaction: Producing Hydrogen Gas
    You're absolutely right! This is a classic example of a single displacement reaction. Here's the balanced chemical equation and a breakdown:

    Reaction:

    2 Al(s) + 3 H₂SO₄(aq) → Al₂(SO₄)₃(aq) + 3 H₂(g)

    Explanation:

    * Aluminum (Al) is a reactive metal that readily reacts with acids.

    * Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) is a strong acid.

    * Aluminum sulfate (Al₂(SO₄)₃) is a soluble salt that dissolves in water.

    * Hydrogen gas (H₂) is produced as a byproduct.

    What happens:

    1. Aluminum atoms (Al) react with hydrogen ions (H⁺) from the sulfuric acid.

    2. Aluminum atoms lose electrons and become aluminum ions (Al³⁺).

    3. Hydrogen ions gain electrons and form hydrogen gas (H₂).

    4. Aluminum ions combine with sulfate ions (SO₄²⁻) to form aluminum sulfate, which dissolves in water.

    Key points:

    * This reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat.

    * The reaction is vigorous, producing bubbles of hydrogen gas.

    * Hydrogen gas is flammable, so care must be taken when carrying out this reaction.

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