What is used to neutralize spilled electrolyte from a lead-acid battery?

What is used to neutralize spilled electrolyte from a lead-acid battery?

• A. A Solution of Bicarbonate Soda and Water
• B. Vinegar
• C. Sodium Hydroxide Solution
• D. Lubricating Oil

Answer: (A)

Spilled electrolyte from a lead-acid battery is sulfuric acid in water, so the aim is to neutralize the acid safely. A mild base like baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is ideal. When it’s sprinkled on the spill, it reacts with the sulfuric acid to form a salt (sodium sulfate), water, and carbon dioxide gas. This neutralizes the acidity and reduces hazards, and baking soda is convenient and safer to handle than stronger bases. Using vinegar wouldn’t help because it’s also an acid, so it wouldn’t neutralize the spill; it could even make the situation more acidic. A strong base such as sodium hydroxide would neutralize the acid too, but it’s highly caustic and dangerous to use around a spill. Lubricating oil wouldn’t react with the acid at all and would just leave a slippery mess. After neutralization, wipe up the residue and rinse with plenty of water, disposing of the waste according to local regulations.

Spilled electrolyte from a lead-acid battery is sulfuric acid in water, so the aim is to neutralize the acid safely. A mild base like baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is ideal. When it’s sprinkled on the spill, it reacts with the sulfuric acid to form a salt (sodium sulfate), water, and carbon dioxide gas. This neutralizes the acidity and reduces hazards, and baking soda is convenient and safer to handle than stronger bases. Using vinegar wouldn’t help because it’s also an acid, so it wouldn’t neutralize the spill; it could even make the situation more acidic. A strong base such as sodium hydroxide would neutralize the acid too, but it’s highly caustic and dangerous to use around a spill. Lubricating oil wouldn’t react with the acid at all and would just leave a slippery mess. After neutralization, wipe up the residue and rinse with plenty of water, disposing of the waste according to local regulations.