Gerald's science teacher mixed room temperature samples of hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide in a large beaker. The solution still looked clear like water, but when the students carefully touched the beaker one at a time, it felt warm to the touch. Why did the beaker most likely feel warm?

Question

Yasmin Tran

Chemistry

5 May, 14:04

Gerald's science teacher mixed room temperature samples of hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide in a large beaker. The solution still looked clear like water, but when the students carefully touched the beaker one at a time, it felt warm to the touch. Why did the beaker most likely feel warm?

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Boots · Answer 1

The reaction of hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide is a neutralization reaction wherein a mixture of acid and base produces salt, water, and energy in the form of heat. A neutralization reaction is exothermic, thus producing heat. This is why the beaker felt warm to the touch.