Why Does Baking Soda Extinguish a Fire

A box of baking soda is often recommended as a handy fire extinguisher in the kitchen. This household hint takes advantage of a chemical reaction involving baking soda as a reactant to douse the fire. Three key components are required to sustain a fire a fuel e.g., a hydrocarbon compound such as methane or octane or a piece of wood containing cellulose , an oxidizing agent generally supplied by oxygen in air , and heat. Combustion of the fuel is terminated when the supply of either the fuel,...

The Chemical Details Cnb

For example, dogs trained to detect cocaine often detect methyl benzoate, a product of the partial decomposition of cocaine when it is exposed to humid air.'2' Note that cocaine Fig. 13.6.1 has two ester linkages these ester linkages are Figure 13.6.1 The molecular structure of cocaine. Figure 13.6.1 The molecular structure of cocaine. denoted with an asterisk at the carbonyl carbon. Hydrolysis of an ester produces a carboxylic acid and an alcohol. Hydrolysis of cocaine can lead to...

Why Do CAT Scans Often Cause a Warm Flush Sensation

For the optimal viewing of soft tissues and organs by CAT scans, patients are often administered either orally or intravenously certain substances known as constrast media. While these substances have the vital function of enhancing the differences in tissue density for the production of superior X-ray images, some minor side effects are often reported. Interestingly, it is the chemical nature of these contrast media that not only dictates their capacity for amplifying X-ray images but also...

Waterproof

Designing effective water-repellent, water-resistant, or waterproof fabrics to provide protection in inclement weather or during certain outdoor activities requires an understanding of the chemical and physical properties of water. Whether you are sailing in wind-driven rain, hiking in a downpour, or sitting on a wet surface, chemistry can keep you dry A variety of finishes are applied to the surfaces of fabrics to impart a resistance to water. The water-repellent finish must be capable of...

The Chemical Details Xhd

While many commercial optical brighteners are trade secrets, most of these fluorescent compounds contain one or more ring systems and are derivatives of stilbene Fig. 12.8.1 , coumarin Fig. 12.8.2 , imidazole Fig. 12.8.3 , triazole Figure 12.8.1 The molecular structure of stilbene. Figure 12.8.1 The molecular structure of stilbene. Figure 12.8.2 The molecular structure of coumarin. Figure 12.8.3 The molecular structure of imidazole. Fig. 12.8.4 , oxazole Fig. 12.8.5 , and biphenyl Fig. 12.8.6 ....

Why Is the Aurora Borealis So Colorful

And the Skies of night were alive with light, with a throbbing, thrilling flame Amber and rose and violet, opal and gold it came. It swept the sky like a giant scythe, it quivered back to a wedge Argently bright, it cleft the night with a wavy golden edge. Pennants of silver waved and streamed, lazy banners unfurled Sudden splendors of sabres gleamed, lightning javelins were hurled. There in our awe we crouched and saw with our wild, uplifted eyes. Charge and retire the hosts of fire in the...

References Gsz

1 Reliable Model ZX-QR-INST Pendent Horizontal Sidewall Quick Response Institutional Sprinkler, Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc., 2 Reliable Model Fl and Model F1FR Intermediate Level Sprinklers. Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc., 3 Fusible Alloys, Clad Metal Industries, 4 Fusible Alloys with Characteristics, Canfield Technologies, http www.solders.com aloyprod.htm

Why Does Soap Scum Form Why Are Phosphates in Detergents

Water softener manufacturers remind us of the many undesirable effects produced by hard water. Besides enhancing the likelihood of harmful scale deposits in plumbing, water heaters, and dishwashers, hard water also has been associated with bathtub scum, deposits on laundry, scale on glasses and dishes, scratchy skin, and unmanageable hair. A simple chemical process explains the origin of hard water. Additional chemical reactions provide an explanation for the scum and deposits that readily form...

How Do Sutures Dissolve

History tells us that catgut suture had its origin around AD 150 in the time of the Greek physician Galen, who built his reputation by treating wounded gladiators. 1,2 what chemical materials do modern surgeons use for sutures to ensure biocompatibility, tensile strength, and dissolution by the body's natural action Have you ever wondered how sutures could possibly hold a wound together long enough to promote healing and manage to dissolve over time And what about the added need for flexibility...

References Gpf

1 What Makes Water Hard amp How Hard Water Can Be Improved. Water Quality Association, 2 DuPont Specialty Chemicals Glycolic Acid Applications. 3 Water Treatment. Rhodia Eco Services, Soaps and Detergents Chemistry. Soap and Detergent Association, Packaged Water Softeners. Rose Marie Tondl, Water Softening. Morton Salt, Morton International, Chemical of the Week Phosphoric Acid. University of Wisconsin,

The Chemical Details Bkr

The process for developing optically variable ink involves the layering of several extremely thin metal-containing pigment coatings of precise thickness, followed by grinding of the coating into tiny platelets or flakes. The flakes are typically 1 urn thick and 2 to 20 im in diameter with an average aspect ratio i.e., ratio of width to height of 10 to lJ'l These color-shifting thin-film flakes are then suspended in a mixture of regular ink, and the ink is then applied to a surface. The...

How Do Windshield Coatings Improve Visibility in a Rainstorm

Aquapel Glass Treatment improves a driver's ability to see clearly and drive safer. This innovative technology is a long-lasting rain repellent. Aquapel Glass Treatment Rain Repellent, Website copy How can a product claim to improve your vision through an automobile windshield The chemical structure of the key ingredients in the formulation can ensure a clear view during a rainstorm. A number of glass treatments are available for both automobiles and aircraft to disperse rain, sleet, and snow...

Why Are Opals and Pearls Iridescent

For centuries the gemstone opal has been admired for its captivating and distinctive play of color. The name of this gemstone is attributed to various origins, including the Latin word opalus and the Sanskrit word upala, both meaning precious stone or jewel, and the Greek term opallios, translating as to see a change of color. Although revered as the queen of gems in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, the opal suffered in popularity in the nineteenth century when Sir Walter Scott associated the opal...

How Does Washing Soda Soften Hard Water

The addition of washing soda to water has been recommended to accomplish a number of tasks, including softening hard water as well as improving the cleaning ability of a detergent. A simple chemical reaction contributes to the effectiveness of this substance. Water containing high concentrations of dissolved solids is often described as hard water. Calcium and magnesium salts are the common salts dissolved in ground water as a result of a partial dissolution of certain minerals. Limestone,...

Why Wont Water Relieve the Burning Sensation of Chili Peppers

Don't reach for that glass of water to cool the effect of spicy chili peppers A few rules of chemistry will suggest a better remedy. Why does water cool the burning sensation of some hot i.e., spicy foods and not others The cooling action arises as water acts to dilute the concentration of substances responsible for the burning sensation, thereby reducing their effect. To make a more dilute solution, water must be capable of dissolving the pungent ingredient. The common expression like...

The Chemical Basics Iac

Did you know the average American consumes the equivalent of 20 teaspoons of sugar each day 1 The non-nutritive sweetener industry is described as a billion-dollar industry with projections of even more rapid expansion in the next few years. What do chemists look for in their search for an ideal sweetener Consumers seek good-tasting, nontoxic, low-caloric sweeteners. Chemists in the sweetener industry add further demands an inexpensive, easy-to-synthesize product that is readily soluble in...

What Causes the Fizz When an Antacid Is Added to Water

The familiar fizzing action that occurs as an antacid tablet dissolves in water is the result of a chemical reaction involving the ingredients in the tablet. The effervescence of an antacid tablet in water is key to the effectiveness of the antacid. Two familiar antacids, Alka-Seltzer and Bromo Seltzer, contain sodium bicarbonate or baking soda NaHCC gt 3. The bicarbonate ion reacts with citric acid, another ingredient of the product, to produce carbonic acid, h2co3. In solution, carbonic acid...

What Makes a NoTears Shampoo

Shampoo manufacturers provide a wealth of products to satisfy a range of consumer preferences. What kind of chemical ingredients are included to ensure a mild shampoo and guarantee a no-tears formula As the central function of a shampoo is to cleanse the hair, the primary ingredient of a shampoo is a detergent also known as a surfactant . Many shampoos, particularly those targeted for babies and children, claim to cause no eye irritation or sting. A no-tears formulation achieves this claim by...

Why Does Disappearing Ink Disappear

Disappearing ink or invisible ink chances are, you've been fascinated by the gradual fading of color when a message written with seemingly standard ink dissipates right before your eyes. Why should a chemist not be fooled by the disappearing ink in a magician's bag of tricks Whether for a class demonstration, a practical joke, or perhaps a clandestine activity, disappearing ink is a fascinating substance. What is the secret to its action One formulation of disappearing ink contains a common...

Why Is Sickle Cell Anemia a Molecular Disease

The Nobel Prize chemist Linus Pauling related the mechanism of sickle cell anemia to a genetic defect in hemoglobin synthesis and thus defined the first molecular disease. Pauling's groundbreaking paper in 1949 was boldly titled Sickle Cell Anemia A Molecular Disease.I1 Many claim that this discovery laid the foundation for molecular biology. What is the chemistry that is at the heart of this pioneering work Sickle cell anemia is a disease that restricts blood flow to organs of the body and...

The Chemical Details Dog

Grapes are one of the few fruit crops that contain a significant amount of the weak organic acid known as tartaric acid, HOOC- CHOH 2-COOH. More than half of the acid content of wine is ascribed to tartaric acid. As a weak acid, tartaric acid partially ionizes in water to yield the bitartrate or hydrogen tartrate ion HOOC- CHOH 2-COOH aq H aq HOOC- CHOH 2-COO aq . The bitartrate ion can combine with potassium ion, also present in high concentrations in grapes, to form the soluble salt potassium...

The Chemical Details Gou

Peppermint oil is the volatile oil extracted from the fresh leaves of the flowering plant of Mentha piperita via steam distillation. Peppermint oil contains not less than 44 menthol. American peppermint oil contains from 50 to 78 of free -menthol Fig. 13.12.1 and from 5 to 20 combined in various es- Figure 13.12.1 The molecular structure of -menthol. ters such as menthyl acetate see Fig. 13.12.2 . The essential oil also contains Figure 13.12.2 The molecular structure of menthyl acetate,...

The Chemical Details Fiu

The propellant mixture in each solid rocket booster of the Space Shuttle contains ammonium perchlorate the oxidizer, 69.6 by weight , aluminum the fuel, 16 by weight , an iron oxide catalyst 0.4 by weight , a polymeric binder that holds the mixture together 12.04 by weight , and an epoxy curing agent 1.96 by weight . Two of the oxidation reduction reactions that occur are 2 nh4cio4 s 2 A1 s - gt ai2o3 s 2 HC1 g 2 NO g 1 6 nh4cio4 s 10 A1 s gt 5 ai2o3 s 6 HC1 g 3 N2 g 2 The solid white product,...

Why Do Citrus Growers Spray Their Trees with Water to Protect Them from a Freeze

During freeze warnings in certain agricultural areas, we often hear that farmers spray their crops with water to provide protection from the cold temperatures. What chemical principles are growers applying to protect their crops The warm-weather climates necessary for citrus orchards generally minimize the risk of frost conditions. Nevertheless, occasionally measures are needed to protect the trees and their fruit from freezing temperatures. Citrus crops become threatened when temperatures fall...

Why Are Bubbles in a Carbonated Drink Spherical

Imagine a stream of bubbles rapidly rising to the surface of glass of soda. What shape are these bubbles Without any prompting, all of us would picture spherically shaped bubbles. What chemical principles preclude oval-shaped or cubic-shaped bubbles Bubbles in a soft drink primarily arise from the carbonation, or dissolved carbon dioxide gas, added prior to bottling the soda. The gas bubbles are surrounded by liquid, primarily composed of water. The water dictates the shape of the gas bub ble....

The Chemical Basics Xpi

Most household drain cleaners are caustic substances that create alkaline basic solutions when dissolved in water. Certain organic compounds commonly called grease dissolve in water that is highly basic. Thus, the alkalinity i.e., characterized by a pH value above 7 of drain cleaners is responsible for the dissolution of grease that has clogged drains and plumbing. Some crystal drain cleaners also contain solid aluminum particles that react with an alkaline solution to produce hydrogen gas and...

The Chemical Details Tjn

The solubility S of magnesium hydroxide in units of moles per liter can be computed from the equilibrium constant the solubility product for the dissolution of the salt. For S equal to the moles per liter of Mg OH 2 dissolved Mg OH 2 s Mg2 aq 20H - aq , Ksp 1.2 x 10n Mg2 OH- 2 1.2 x 10-11 S 2S 2 1.2X1011 4S3 1.2 xlO-11 S 1.44 x 10 4 M. With a molecular weight for magnesium hydroxide of 58.3 g mole, the solubility is equivalent to 8.36 mg per liter. The Bayer product Original Phillips' Milk of...

The Chemical Details Sls

An instant ice pack for first-aid treatment uses the endothermic nature of the dissolution of an ionic salt in water to provide cold therapy. Two typical materials that absorb heat as they dissolve in water are ammonium nitrate and ammonium chloride NH4NO3 s - NH aq NO aq NH4CI s - gt NH4 aq CP aq . The standard enthalpy of reaction for the dissolution of ammonium nitrate in water can be calculated using the enthalpies of formation for reactants and products y AH products - A f reactants A f NH...

The Chemical Basics Wds

Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid, is the world's most widely used remedy for reducing pain and lowering fever. Although aspirin's first description in the medical literature in 1899 was for the treatment of rheumatic fever, a simpler derivative of aspirin known as salicylic acid had been described earlier 1876 as being effective for controlling fever and treating gout and arthritis. Still earlier 1763 , homeopathic medical practitioners reported that the chewing of white willow Salix bark was...

The Chemical Details Ypw

The tacky polymeric microspheres that comprise the pressure-sensitive adhesive layers of repositionable notes are patented inventions. One such material U.S. Patent 5,714,237 3l is prepared by a free-radical polymerization reaction of iso-octyl acrylate Fig. 14.3.1 in the presence of polyacrylic acid with a chain- Figure 14.3.1 The molecular structure of isooctyl acrylate, a monomer in a free-radical polymerization reaction. Figure 14.3.1 The molecular structure of isooctyl acrylate, a monomer...

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Figure 7.1.2 The molecular structure of chloroform. and halogenated hydrocarbons such as ethyl chloride Fig. 7.1.5 , trichloroethy-lene trilene Fig. 7.1.6 , halothane fluothane or 2-bromo-2-chloro-1,1,1 -trifluoro-ethane Fig. 7.1.7 , methoxyflurane penthrane, metofane Fig. 7.1.8 , enflu-rane enthrane or 2-chloro-l,l,2-trifluoroethyl difluoromethyl ether Fig. 7.1.9 , isoflurane forane, aerrane, or l-chloro-2,2,2,trifluoroethyl difluoromethyl ether Fig. 7.1.10 , sevoflurane ultane or...

The Chemical Details Cxq

The first portrait using magnesium was taken by Alfred Brothers of Manchester on 22 February, 1864.W However, a limited understanding of the chemistry of magnesium and its prohibitive cost inhibited the development of this application. Advances by Robert Bunsen the discoverer of the element cesium and for whom the Bunsen burner is named led to more economic production of pure magnesium by electrolytic means Bunsen also advocated the use of magnesium for illumination purposes. In the late 1880s...