Reviewed CSCA Chemistry question · Easy

A student accidentally spills a small amount of concentrated sulfuric acid on the laboratory bench. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

Wipe it up with a dry paper towel and dispose of the towel in the trash.
Neutralize the spill with a dilute sodium hydroxide solution.
Cover the spill with sodium bicarbonate powder, then clean it up.
Rinse the spill with a large amount of water and then wipe it dry.

Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer

C. Cover the spill with sodium bicarbonate powder, then clean it up.

Principle or equation

Acid spills should be neutralized with a mild base like sodium bicarbonate, which is safe and effervesces to indicate reaction, then cleaned up.

Why this answer is correct

Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) is a weak base that neutralizes sulfuric acid safely, producing carbon dioxide, water, and a salt. The effervescence indicates the reaction is occurring. After neutralization, the residue can be wiped up. Using NaOH is dangerous because it is a strong base and can cause a violent reaction. Water may spread the acid and generate heat. Dry paper towel is ineffective and unsafe.

Example

For a small HCl spill, sprinkle NaHCO₃ until bubbling stops, then wipe.

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