How Do You Make Hydrogen From Soda Water?
Caustic soda, also known as sodium hydroxide and lye, reacts with soda water and aluminum to form hydrogen gas. You can observe and trap the hydrogen formed in this reaction with a few simple items you probably already have at home. Handling caustic soda requires care, however, as this substance can cause eye and skin irritation if inhaled or ingested. Fill the bottle halfway with soda water (non-carbonated water will also work for this experiment). Add 1/2 tbsp. of caustic soda to the water and let dissolve. Fold the aluminum foil so that it will fit through the mouth of the bottle. Add it to the water and caustic soda mixture. Cover the mouth of the bottle with the balloon. As the soda water, caustic soda, and aluminum react inside the bottle, escaping gas will flow up into the balloon and begin to fill it. Carefully watch the balloon as it fills; when it stops growing pinch the bottom of the balloon and remove it from the bottle. If the balloon becomes too full before the reaction i
