When heating a solution to boiling on a hot plate, you should start by:

• A. placing the container on the hot plate and gradually increasing the temperature
• B. adding ice to the solution before heating
• C. setting the hot plate to its maximum temperature immediately
• D. covering the container tightly to prevent evaporation

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the goal: When heating a solution to boiling, the objective is to raise the temperature safely and efficiently without causing sudden boiling or splattering.
2. Recognize that placing the container on the hot plate and gradually increasing the temperature allows controlled heating, preventing rapid boiling and potential hazards.
3. Avoid adding ice before heating, as this would lower the temperature and counteract the heating process.
4. Avoid setting the hot plate to its maximum temperature immediately, since sudden high heat can cause uneven heating and dangerous boiling over.
5. Avoid tightly covering the container during heating because it can trap steam, increasing pressure and risk of explosion or splattering.