What happens when dilute hydrochloric acid is added to iron filings?

    Reaction of Iron Filings with Hydrochloric Acid

    What happens when dilute hydrochloric acid is added to iron filings?

    Select the correct answer:

    1. (a) Hydrogen gas and iron chloride are produced.
    2. (b) Chlorine gas and iron hydroxide are produced.
    3. (c) No reaction takes place.
    4. (d) Iron salt and water are produced.

    Answer: (a) Hydrogen gas and iron chloride are produced.

    Explanation: When dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl) is added to iron filings (Fe), a chemical reaction takes place. Hydrogen gas (H2) and iron chloride (FeCl2) are produced. This is a typical reaction of a metal with an acid.

    Chemical Reaction:

    Fe (s) + 2 HCl (aq) → FeCl2 (aq) + H2 (g)