Question

Egg whites contain dissolved carbon dioxide and water,

which react together to give carbonic acid (${\mathbf{H}}_2{\mathbf{CO}}_3$). In the few days after an

egg is laid, it loses carbon dioxide through its shell. Does the pH of the egg

white increase or decrease during this period?

Short answer

The elimination of the${\mathrm{CO}}_2$through the shell of the egg would increase the pH

of the egg white because the weak acid in the system is being lost.

Step-by-step solution

Egg’s shell

In the few days after an egg is laid, it loses carbon dioxide through its shell.

Since${\mathrm{CO}}_2$ is in gasous state and escapes from the pores of the shell.

The breakage of Caron-di-oxide

The elimination of the${\mathbf{CO}}_2$through the shell of the egg would increase the pH of the egg white. Since${\mathbf{CO}}_2$in water makes a weak acid called carbonic acid ${\mathbf{H}}_2{\mathbf{CO}}_3$.If acid is removed from the shell, then$\mathbf{pH}$ increases.