| MadSci Network: Chemistry |
Good question. This is actually a simple decomposition reaction. The equation is C12H22O11----->11H2O + 12C (the carbon is in the form of graphite) Sulfuric acid, however, is the trigger. Concentrated sulfuric acid forms a hydrate - a chemical that is strongly attracted to the positive and negative ends of the water molecule. The sulfuric acid molecule is so hygroscopic that it can suck hydrogen and oxygen out of many chemicals so that it can have water molecules to hold on to. This is what is happening here. This property, among others, makes sulfuric acid a useful substance in many industries. This process is useful in the production of ethers, explosives, polymers, medicines, and many other chemical reactions. Sugar will also decompose when exposed to heat. If sugar is placed in a test tube and heated over a bunsen burner, water is released and carbon is deposited on the inside of the tube. Oh, and if you actually do the reaction you asked about, be careful. Sulfuric acid is very dangerous. When concentrated, it does the same thing to your skin as it does to the sugar. Also, when the reaction occurs, the container it is in becomes extremely hot. It's best to leave this experiment to your chemistry teacher.
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