What is used to neutralize spilled electrolyte from a lead-acid battery?

• A. Baking soda and vinegar
• B. Solution of bicarbonate of soda and water
• C. Water only
• D. Sodium hydroxide solution

Answer: (B)

Neutralizing spilled lead–acid battery electrolyte relies on a mild base to react with the sulfuric acid in the battery fluid, turning it into safer products. Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) in water provides that gentle base while being safe and readily available. When it meets sulfuric acid, it neutralizes the acidity and produces sodium sulfate, carbon dioxide, and water. The carbon dioxide bubbles away, leaving a safer, damp residue to wipe up.

Using water alone only dilutes the acid and doesn’t raise the pH, so the spill remains corrosive. Mixing baking soda with vinegar would introduce another acid to the mix and isn’t how you safely neutralize the acid spill. Sodium hydroxide is a strong caustic base that can cause burns and heat release, making it unsuitable for a simple spill cleanup.