Final answer:
The gaseous product from the decomposition of sodium bicarbonate is carbon dioxide, which is acidic and will turn blue litmus paper red but will not affect red litmus paper. The correct option is (b).
Step-by-step explanation:
The experiment being discussed involves the decomposition of sodium bicarbonate, also known as sodium hydrogen carbonate (NaHCO₃). During the decomposition reaction, sodium bicarbonate breaks down to produce sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃), water (H₂O), and carbon dioxide gas (CO₂). The chemical equation for this reaction is 2 NaHCO₃(s) → Na₂CO₃(s) + CO₂(g) + H₂O(l).
Testing the nature of the gaseous product, which in this case is carbon dioxide, can be done using litmus paper. Based on the properties of carbon dioxide and its reaction with water to form carbonic acid, it is acidic in nature. Therefore, it will turn blue litmus paper red, indicating its acidic characteristic, but it will not change the color of red litmus paper. Consequently, the correct option is that the gaseous product changes the color of blue litmus paper but shows no change with red litmus paper.
This information aligns with the observed effects of carbon dioxide in the discussion provided, where lime water turns milky due to the presence of carbon dioxide and is used to detect this gas. Also, it is known that acids and bases neutralize each other, and indicators like litmus can help determine the nature of a substance. The gaseous product from the decomposition of sodium bicarbonate will therefore demonstrate acidic properties and act accordingly with indicators.