Question

2. Chefs are usually warned against using aluminum foil when preparing acidic foods. Given your observations today, what reaction might occur that would require such a warning? What the chemical equation for this reaction.

Answer 1

Aluminum can dissolve in acid. For example, this is the reaction of aluminum with hydrochloric acid.

2Al + 6HCl = 2AlCl₃ + 3H₂↑

2Al⁰ + 6H⁺ + 6Cl^- = 2Al³⁺ + 6Cl^- + 3H₂↑

2Al⁰ + 6H+ = 2Al³⁺ + 3H₂↑