GCSE Chemistry

When reacting metals with acids in a polystyrene cup, why do you have to put the polystyrene cup in a beaker?

The polystyrene acts as an insulating layer so less heat is lost from the reaction. Hope that helps

Thank you for your reply. Why do you have to put the polystyrene in a beaker though?

If you are reacting metals with acids glass is not a good insulator whereas the addition of the polystyrene cup adds in extra insulation. You would have to place the polystyrene cup within the glass beaker for safety reasons as the beaker provides stability for the reaction and prevents spilling as the polystyrene cups are prone to splitting.

If you are reacting metals with acids glass is not a good insulator whereas the addition of the polystyrene cup adds in extra insulation. You would have to place the polystyrene cup within the glass beaker for safety reasons as the beaker provides stability for the reaction and prevents spilling as the polystyrene cups are prone to splitting.

Thank you so much for your helpful reply!