Test for Carbon Dioxide (AQA GCSE Chemistry: Combined Science)

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Test for carbon dioxide

  • The test for carbon dioxide involves bubbling the gas through an aqueous solution of calcium hydroxide (limewater)
  • If the gas is carbon dioxide, the limewater turns milky or cloudy

Test for carbon dioxide 

Test for Carbon Dioxide showing limewater turning cloudy

Carbon dioxide turns limewater cloudy

Examiner Tip

Sometimes students think that extinguishing a burning splint indicates carbon dioxide gas. However, while it is a property of carbon dioxide, other gases, such as nitrogen, will also do this, so the test is not definitive and should not be quoted in an exam answer.

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Stewart

Author: Stewart

Expertise: Chemistry Lead

Stewart has been an enthusiastic GCSE, IGCSE, A Level and IB teacher for more than 30 years in the UK as well as overseas, and has also been an examiner for IB and A Level. As a long-standing Head of Science, Stewart brings a wealth of experience to creating Exam Questions and revision materials for Save My Exams. Stewart specialises in Chemistry, but has also taught Physics and Environmental Systems and Societies.