Question

final mass initial mass CO2 mass
(1.) 84.755 minus 85.672 = .917

(2) 84.733 minus 85.684 = .951

(3) 84.757 minus 85.707 = .95

what is maximum volume of vinigar that can be neutralized by one alka seltzer tablet and explain? Not sure how to get this answer....HELP!

Answer 1

Assuming NaHCO3 is the active ingredient in Alka-Seltzer that would react with vinegar,
2NaHCO3 + 2HC2H3O2(vinegar) ==> 2NaC2H3O2 + 2CO2 + 2H2O

Convert grams CO2 to moles CO2. moles = grams/molar mass.

Using the coefficients in the balanced equation, convert moles CO2 to moles vinegar.

Convert moles vinegar to grams. grams = moles x molar mass.

To get to the volume of vinegar from the grams vinegar, you need to know the percent acetic acid in vinegar. I have seen both 4% acetic acid and 5% acetic acid at the store for vinegar. If we use 4%, the number will be larger and the questin asks for maximum volume so let's use that figure. I will call acetic acid HAc.
percent acetic acid = (4 g HAc/100 g solution)
Therefore, 100 g soln x (g vinegar needed/4) = ??
Now you have grams vinegar. Convert to mL using the density of vinegar of 1.01 g/mL.