Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Base with HCl
Al(OH)3 + 3HCl → AlCl3 + 3H2O
Overview
Aluminum hydroxide dissolves in hydrochloric acid, demonstrating its basic character. As an amphoteric substance, Al(OH)₃ can act as either an acid or a base. With HCl, it donates its hydroxide ions to neutralize the acid. The gelatinous white precipitate dissolves to form a clear solution.
Participants
| Role | Substance | Coefficient | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reactant | Aluminum Hydroxide Al(OH)₃ | 1 | (s) |
| Reactant | Hydrochloric Acid HCl | 3 | (aq) |
| Product | Water H₂O | 3 | (l) |
Everyday Example
Aluminum hydroxide is the active ingredient in many antacid tablets like Maalox, where it neutralizes stomach acid.
Industrial Importance
Aluminum hydroxide is used in water purification as a coagulant, as a fire retardant in plastics, and as a pharmaceutical antacid.
Properties
- Type
- Acid-Base
- Reversible
- No
- Energy
- Exothermic
- ΔH
- -170.0 kJ/mol
Related Reactions
Acetic Acid and Sodium Acetate Buffer System
Acetic Acid and Sodium Hydroxide Neutralization
Acetic Acid Dissociation in Water
Aluminum Chloride and Chloride Ion (Lewis Acid-Base)
Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Acid with NaOH
Ammonia and Ammonium Chloride Buffer System
Ammonia and Hydrochloric Acid
Ascorbic Acid and Sodium Hydroxide
Barium Hydroxide and Ammonium Thiocyanate (Endothermic)
Benzoic Acid and Sodium Hydroxide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the equation for Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Base with HCl?
The balanced equation is: Al(OH)₃ + 3HCl → AlCl₃ + 3H₂O.
What type of reaction is Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Base with HCl?
Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Base with HCl is a acid-base reaction.
Is Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Base with HCl exothermic or endothermic?
Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Base with HCl is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -170.0 kJ/mol.