Question

We use ____ as an absorbent when we are cleaning up either acidic or basic spills?

1) Water
2) Baking soda
3) Vinegar
4) Salt

Answer 1

Salt can be used as an absorbent to clean up both acidic and basic spills by neutralizing the acidity or basicity of the spill.

Step-by-step explanation:

Absorbents are materials that are used to soak up or remove spills. When cleaning up acidic or basic spills, we can use a common household item called salt as an absorbent. Salt, also known as sodium chloride (NaCl), has the ability to neutralize both acidic and basic substances, making it suitable for cleaning up spills.

For acidic spills, salt can react with the acid to form a salt solution, which is neutral or close to neutral in pH. This helps to neutralize the acidity of the spill and make it easier to clean up. Similarly, for basic spills, salt can react with the base to form a salt solution, reducing the basicity of the spill.

Here's an example: Let's say there is an acidic spill on a kitchen countertop. To clean it up, you can sprinkle some salt on the spill. The salt will react with the acid, forming a salt solution that can be easily wiped away. The same principle applies to basic spills as well.