Give a reason why:

(a) gastric juices of mammals are acidic

(b) HCl is considered a polar covalent compound.

Give the equation for preparation of HCl gas by synthesis. State two conditions involved in the synthesis.

In the laboratory preparation of HCl from sodium chloride, state why the following are preferred –

(i) Conc. H₂SO₄ as a reactant

(ii) Temp. below 200°C

(iii) Conc. H₂SO₄ as a drying agent.

State with reasons the method of collection of HCl gas in the laboratory.