Final answer:
To identify a clear, colorless gas, tests such as observing color change when exposed to air, the ability to extinguish a burning splint, creating a popping sound with a match, or turning lime water milky can be performed. These tests can provide clues to the gas's identity, such as inert gases, hydrogen or carbon dioxide, based on the observed reactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the identity of a clear, colorless gas, a series of tests can be conducted. The various tests and expected outcomes for the gas samples are:
- a) If the gas turns blue when exposed to air, this is a unique property but not a standard test. It could indicate a gas that forms a colored compound upon reaction with oxygen or moisture in the air.
- b) If the gas extinguishes a burning splint, this is a common characteristic of inert gases like nitrogen or carbon dioxide, or it could indicate the presence of a gas that does not support combustion.
- c) A gas that produces a popping sound when a lit match is introduced is likely to be hydrogen, as this is indicative of a rapid combustion or explosive reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in the air.
- d) A gas that turns lime water milky when bubbled through it is a classic test for carbon dioxide. The chemical reaction between carbon dioxide and calcium hydroxide (present in lime water) forms calcium carbonate, which creates the milky appearance.
Each of these tests relies on the distinct chemical behavior of the gas in question and provides clues to its identity based on the reaction or lack of reaction observed.