Chemical Weathering Lab

Discussion The result of this experiment provides some very important information concerning the reaction of different solutions on the chemical weathering of the rocks. By comparing the change in mass and composition of the rocks kept in distilled water, soda water, and different concentrations of vinegar, it could be concluded that the acidity of the solution was what played the prime role in the speed of the chemical weathering. The first cup, containing 50% vinegar solution, had a starting pH of 3 and a beginning mass of 10g. After four weeks, the pH was 4 and the mass was 7.9g, indicating a loss of 2.1g caused by chemical weathering. The second cup, containing 10% vinegar solution, had a starting pH of 4 and a beginning mass of 10g. After four weeks, the pH
The fourth and final cup, containing a distilled water solution, had a starting pH of 7 and a beginning mass of 10g. After four weeks, the pH was 6 and the mass was 10g, indicating no change caused by chemical weathering. The data from this experiment shows that the acidity of the solution plays a major role in the rate of the chemical weathering of the rocks. The greatest loss in mass was from the rock kept in the 50% vinegar solution because acetic acid was highly concentrated and tends to react very rapidly with minerals like calcium carbonate. This reaction results in carbon dioxide, water, and soluble calcium ions, thereby dissolving the material of the rock efficiently. While on the other hand, the rock in the distilled water had the least changes because of their pH neutrality; being non-reactive by nature due to their inability to significantly change the composition of the rock. The rock in the soda water experienced moderate weathering due to the carbonic acid content in it. Though it is not as strong as the acetic acid, it is still capable of making some reactions with the susceptible