SAFETY NOTES: Because there is a possibility of bags bursting from overfilling and because one of the ingredients in the bag is an acid, ALL TEST RUNS OF AIR BAG DESIGNS ARE TO BE CONDUCTED IN THE HOOD.
Part I: Calculating the Volume of the "Air Bag"
Measure and record the atmospheric temperature and pressure.
Obtain an empty plastic "air bag."
Over a sink, fill the bag as full as possible with water and seal it.
Carefully transfer the water to a large (~1L) beaker.
Transfer the water to a graduated cylinder to determine the volume of water held by the bag.
Note: You may need to make several transfers to find the total volume.
Use the P, T, and V data gathered to calculate the number of moles of CO2 needed to fill your air bag.
Use the balanced reaction to determine the grams of NaHCO, and mL of 6.0 M CH,COOH needed to fill your air bag.
Part II: Testing Your "Air Bag"
Use paper towels or Kimwipes to completely dry the inside of the bag.
Weigh your calculated amount of sodium bicarbonate and add it to your "air bag." Be sure to record the exact gram amount you add.
Measure your calculated volume of 6.0 M acetic acid using a graduated cylinder. Record the volume to the nearest 0.1 mL. NOTE: Be very careful when handling the acid and wash your hands immediately if you get any on your skin. Acetic acid is not a strong acid but it will still cause irritation if left in contact with your skin.
Take your graduated cylinder and "air bag" to the hood. Once at the hood you can test your air bag. Quickly but carefully pour your acetic acid into the "air bag" and seal it. Mix the ingredients completely by shaking and squishing the bag.
Once the reaction is complete, note your observations of the fullness of the air bag and whether or not the reagents seem to be completely used up. A successful air bag will be a full pillow with only a small volume of water apparent in the bag.