Which of the following combinations would create the fastest chemical reactions?
a
a crushed antacid tablet and vinegar at 25 degrees Celsius
b
a whole antacid tablet and vinegar at 25 degrees Celsius
c
a whole antacid tablet and vinegar at 50 degrees Celsius
d
a crushed antacid tablet and vinegar at 50 degrees Celsius
d) a crushed antacid tablet and vinegar at 50 degrees Celsius
The combination that would create the fastest chemical reactions is option d: a crushed antacid tablet and vinegar at 50 degrees Celsius.
To determine which combination would create the fastest chemical reactions, we need to consider two factors: the surface area of the antacid tablet and the temperature of the vinegar.
First, let's talk about surface area. When the antacid tablet is crushed, it increases its surface area compared to when it is whole. A larger surface area allows more of the tablet to come into contact with the vinegar, increasing the rate at which the reaction takes place.
Next, let's discuss temperature. Higher temperatures generally result in faster reactions. This is because increased temperature provides more energy to the particles, causing them to move faster and collide more frequently, leading to a faster reaction rate.
Now, let's compare the given combinations:
a) A crushed antacid tablet and vinegar at 25 degrees Celsius: This combination has an increased surface area due to the crushed tablet. However, the lower temperature might slow down the reaction.
b) A whole antacid tablet and vinegar at 25 degrees Celsius: This combination does not have the increased surface area that can be achieved through crushing the tablet. The lower temperature might also slow down the reaction.
c) A whole antacid tablet and vinegar at 50 degrees Celsius: This combination does not have the increased surface area from crushing, but the higher temperature will likely speed up the reaction due to increased molecular motion.
d) A crushed antacid tablet and vinegar at 50 degrees Celsius: This combination has both an increased surface area from crushing and the higher temperature, which will likely produce the fastest reaction.
Therefore, option d) a crushed antacid tablet and vinegar at 50 degrees Celsius is likely to create the fastest chemical reaction.