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Activity 1.3 — Quicklime + Water
NCERT Activity 1.3: Add water to a small amount of quicklime (CaO) in a beaker. Observe the vigorous exothermic reaction and the formation of slaked lime [Ca(OH)₂]. Test the product with red litmus paper.
How To Perform
1
Add Quicklime
Take a small amount of quicklime (CaO — white powder) in a clean dry beaker.
2
Add Water Slowly
Add water to the quicklime SLOWLY. The reaction is highly exothermic.
3
Observe
Watch for hissing sound, steam, the beaker getting hot, and a cloudy white suspension forming.
4
Test with Litmus
Dip red litmus paper into the suspension — it turns blue (basic).
⚠️ Safety Notes
- •Always add quicklime TO water — never the other way around.
- •Wear safety goggles — the reaction can splatter hot suspension.
- •The beaker gets very hot. Handle with a cloth or tongs.