Should You Pour Acids and Bases Over a Sink in a Lab?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the laboratory practice of pouring acids and bases over a sink. Participants clarify that while it is generally discouraged to dispose of excess chemicals in sinks, pouring over a sink during transfers can be acceptable to catch spills. The correct answer to the homework question is (C) III only, as wearing goggles and heating a stoppered test tube are both unsafe practices. The conversation emphasizes the importance of context in laboratory procedures, particularly regarding chemical handling.

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  • Understanding of basic laboratory safety protocols
  • Knowledge of chemical properties of acids and bases
  • Familiarity with proper waste disposal methods in a lab setting
  • Experience with laboratory equipment and procedures
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  • Research laboratory safety guidelines for handling acids and bases
  • Learn about proper chemical disposal methods in laboratory environments
  • Study the properties and risks associated with common laboratory chemicals
  • Explore best practices for spill management in a laboratory setting
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Laboratory technicians, chemistry students, educators, and anyone involved in chemical handling and safety in laboratory environments.

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Homework Statement


Which of the following would you not do in a laboratory setting?

I. Pour acids and bases over a sink
II. Wear goggles
III. Heat a stoppered test tube

(A) I only
(B) II only
(C) III only
(D) I and III only
(E) I, II, and III

Homework Equations


-

The Attempt at a Solution


I chose D but apparently it is C. I thought you shouldn't pour acids and bases over sinks, can someone clarify? (I have seen this multiple times)

Thanks!
 
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i would still say its D because it is never a practice to pour excess chemical into the sink (at least when i was in college). Weak Acid or Base maybe are permitted by some school? Better refer to your teacher and ask him/her the reason.
 
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Drain cleaners contain either strong base (NaOH) or strong acid (H2SO4), and they are routinely used throughout the world in millions of households. While the general idea that you should not get rid of excess chemicals by pouring them into the sink is definitely right, such simple rules sometimes become blatantly absurd when compared with the reality.
 
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Agree with Borek.
It does not say, "dispose of acids and bases into the sink."

TT0 said:
I. Pour acids and bases over a sink
which certain situations and necessity will dictate.
 
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TT0 said:
I. Pour acids and bases over a sink
My take on this question is when transferring from a container to a smaller one, should it be performed over a sink to catch any spill. Otherwise, you'll be cleaning up the spill off the bench and other apparatus (and possibly the floor and yourself).

Pouring "over" in this context can have a meaning quite different from "into".
 
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