Production of common gases The common gases produced during the experimental investigations in this chapter are: 1. Hydrogen
2. Carbon dioxide 3. Oxygen
The table below gives a summary of how these common gases are produced: Gas
Hydrogen Carbon dioxide Oxygen
Hydrochloric acid and a metal, e.g. magnesium
Hydrochloric acid and marble chips (calcium carbonate)
Hydrogen peroxide and manganese dioxide
Carbon dioxide causes limewater to go from a colourless solution to milky
Reactants required Test to confirm gas is present Use for this gas Hydrogen burns with a pop
Fire extinguishers, photosynthesis, fizzy drinks
Oxygen relights a glowing splint Oxyacetylene welding torches, hospital equipment
Fertiliser production, fuel
: Fig. 21.13 Carbon dioxide gas is used in fire extinguishers Biochemical reactions
A biochemical reaction is a reaction that takes place inside a living cell. Like all chemical reactions, a new product is formed in a biochemical reaction.
The many biochemical reactions that happen in the human body ensure that it functions in a healthy way. Examples of biochemical reactions include:
• Digestion: the breaking down of food into smaller particles that can be used by the body. Enzymes play an important role in digestion. Enzymes are biological catalysts (see chapter 6).
• Respiration: the release of energy from food happens in all living cells (see chapter 11).
: Fig. 21.14 The enzymes in your saliva speed up the biochemical reaction that helps break down food for digestion
• Photosynthesis: the way plants use carbon dioxide and water to make food and oxygen (see chapter 11).