Question

After we finish our solubility tests using potassium permanganate, how should we dispose of our test solutions?

a. since the potassium permanganate is soluble in water, we should rinse it down the drain in the sink.
b. let the test solutions evaporate in the fume hood and transfer the remaining solids into the regular garbage trash can.
c. place all solutions containing potassium permanganate into an oven at 250 oc for 6 hours to boil off all traces of permanganate.
d. since manganese is a heavy-metal toxin, all solutions are to be collected separately in a special waste container designated to collect heavy-metal wastes.
e. collect only the purple-colored solutions in the heavy-metal waste container, all others can be safely washed down the drain.

Answer 1

Potassium permanganate solutions should be collected in a special waste container for proper disposal due to its reactive and environmentally impactful nature.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering the disposal of test solutions that contain potassium permanganate, it is important to handle the substance correctly due to its strong oxidizing properties and environmental impact. Potassium permanganate can react and degrade various organic materials and should not be disposed of in regular garbage or down the drain without proper treatment.

Therefore, the correct method would be to collect all solutions containing potassium permanganate in a special waste container designated for heavy-metal wastes, despite the fact that manganese is not traditionally categorized as a heavy metal toxin.

This ensures that the material is handled appropriately and prevents any potential harm to the environment or human health.