Chapter U1.1, Problem 7E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The use of hoods in the chemistry laboratory needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: While working in a chemistry laboratory, it is very important to follow certain dos and don’ts. These help in preventing accidents.

Answer to Problem 7E

A hood is a box-like chamber in chemical laboratories to prevent the direct contact of chemicals with the body because some chemicals are toxic and have a pungent odor. By pungent and toxic nature they will show some side effects like itching in the eyes, coughing, coaching of the throat, etc.

Explanation of Solution

Before beginning any laboratory procedure, one should follow the following things:

1. One must be dressed appropriately in a lab coat before using any chemical.
2. The nature of the chemicals that one is going to use for the experiment must be read carefully.
3. One must be familiar with safety equipment in the lab.

The chemistry laboratory deals with the chemicals. Sometimes, chemicals react with each other to form different types of products like toxic solid, pungent-smelling liquids, and toxic gases. These toxic chemicals enter into the bloodstream only through inhalation. The hood is used to remove toxic gases from the laboratory directly so that it does not come in direct contact with the person experimenting.

Conclusion

Thus, the hood is used in a chemical laboratory to directly remove toxic gases while performing experiments.