9-1 Chemistry/Identification of common gases

Test for hydrogen

Use a burning splint held at the open end of a test tube of gas. Hydrogen burns rapidly with a squeaky pop sound.

Test for oxygen

The test for oxygen uses a glowing splint inserted into a test tube of the gas. The splint relights in oxygen.

Test for carbon dioxide

An aqueous solution of calcium hydroxide, known as lime water. When carbon dioxide is shaken with or bubbled through limewater, the limewater turns cloudy.

Test for chlorine

An example of litmus paper which is used to test for chlorine gas.

When damp litmus paper is put into chlorine gas, the litmus paper is bleached and turns white.