Storing lemonade in a pewter pitcher can result in which of the following?

• A. Formation of a protective oxide layer on the pitcher
• B. No chemical reaction or effect
• C. Increased carbonation of the lemonade
• D. Leaching of toxic lead into the lemonade

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the composition of pewter: Pewter is an alloy primarily made of tin, but it often contains other metals such as copper, antimony, and sometimes lead. Historically, pewter could contain significant amounts of lead.
2. Consider the chemical properties of lemonade: Lemonade is acidic due to the presence of citric acid. Acids can react with certain metals, especially those that are not highly resistant to corrosion.
3. Analyze the interaction between acidic lemonade and pewter: The acid in lemonade can cause the leaching of metals from the pewter into the liquid. If the pewter contains lead, the acid can dissolve some of the lead, leading to contamination of the lemonade.
4. Eliminate the incorrect options: Formation of a protective oxide layer is unlikely because lead does not form a stable, protective oxide layer in acidic conditions. Increased carbonation is unrelated to the interaction between lemonade and pewter. 'No chemical reaction or effect' is incorrect because the acid in lemonade can react with the pewter.
5. Conclude the correct answer: The correct answer is 'Leaching of toxic lead into the lemonade,' as the acidic nature of lemonade can dissolve lead from the pewter, posing a health risk.