The chemical equation above demonstrates the reaction between the compound Al2S3 (aluminum sulfide) and the acid HNO3 (nitric acid) to produce the compound Al(NO3)3 (aluminum nitrate) and the gas H2S (hydrogen sulfide).
- Reaction Conditions
In order for the reaction to take place, sufficient amounts of nitric acid and aluminum sulfide are required. The reaction generally occurs at room temperature.
- Reaction Process
When the two reactants are mixed together, the compound aluminum sulfide reacts with nitric acid to produce the compound aluminum nitrate and hydrogen sulfide gas. This process is illustrated by the balanced chemical equation as stated above.
- Observable Phenomena
When the reaction takes place, a visible phenomenon of H2S gas (yellow) can be seen rising from the solution. H2S has a distinctive foul odor, so it can be easily recognized that this reaction has occurred. However, note that H2S gas can be toxic if inhaled at high concentrations.