Question

I have a cleaning chemical that is 10 %

potassium hydroxide (KOH}) and 5 %
sodium hypochlorite (NaClO). What is the result if I add citric acid (C6H8O7) or ascorbic acid (C6H8O6)? My goal is to neutralize the high pH of the potassium hydroxide without creating dangerous byproducts. I do not have a background in chemistry. How do I determine the result of the mass balance equation?

KOH+NaClO+C6H8O7⟶?

KOH+NaClO+C6H8O6⟶?

acid-base

Answer 1

Adding citric acid (C6H8O7) or ascorbic acid (C6H8O6) to a cleaning chemical containing KOH and NaClO results in a neutralization reaction, forming potassium citrate or potassium ascorbate and water, and lowering the pH without creating dangerous byproducts if done correctly.

Step-by-step explanation:

When citric acid (C6H8O7) or ascorbic acid (C6H8O6) is added to a cleaning chemical containing 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH) and 5% sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), the goal is to neutralize the high pH. Both acids will react with KOH to produce water and the respective potassium salt of the acid. This neutralization reaction can be represented as:

• KOH(aq) + C6H8O7(aq) → K3C6H5O7(aq) + 3H2O(l)
• KOH(aq) + C6H8O6(aq) → KC6H7O6(aq) + H2O(l)

In both cases, the reaction will first neutralize the KOH, effectively lowering the pH. It's important to ensure that the amount of acid added is appropriate to neutralize the alkali without over-acidifying the solution. Professional advice should be sought in the formulation of such mixtures to avoid the risk of creating dangerous byproducts or imbalances.