H+ + CN- <--> HCN.
The result of this equilibrium is that quite a number of H+ ions from the water are converted into undissociated HCN molecules. But for every H+ ion so removed an OH- ion remains free, and this will give the solution alkaline properties.
EXERCISES
1. How can you prove that the composition of the different allotropic forms of carbon is the same?
2. Are lampblack and bone black allotropic forms of carbon? Will equal amounts of heat be liberated in the combustion of 1 g. of each?
3. How could you judge of the relative purity of different forms of carbon?
4. Apart from its color, why should carbon be useful in the preparation of inks and paints?
5. Could asbestos fibers be used to replace the wire in a safety lamp?
6. Why do most acids decompose carbonates?
7. What effect would doubling the pressure have upon the solubility of carbon dioxide in water?