How do I test for the presence of hydrogen gas?

1 Answer
anor277
May 13, 2016

#H_2(g) + 1/2O_2(g) rarr H_2O(g)#

Explanation:

The classic test is to put your thumb over the end of the test-tube, and then put a lit splint (a match) near the end. The hydrogen will ignite with a loud pop. These days we are almost out of the flame age in a laboratory, but this is certainly a valid and repeatable test.

Related questions
See all questions in Percent Yield
Impact of this question
2881 views around the world
You can reuse this answer
Creative Commons License