Chloric acid

Chloric acid is a strong acid that is commonly used in laboratories and industries. It is a powerful oxidizing agent and is often used in the production of other chemicals.

Chemical properties

Chloric acid, with the chemical formula HClO3, is a strong acid that is capable of donating a proton in a chemical reaction. It is a powerful oxidizing agent, meaning it can accept electrons from other substances in a chemical reaction. This makes it useful in a variety of chemical reactions, particularly in the production of other chemicals.

Physical properties

In its pure form, chloric acid is a colorless liquid. It has a pungent odor and is highly corrosive, meaning it can cause severe burns and eye damage. It is also a strong oxidizer, which means it can cause or contribute to the combustion of other materials.

Production

Chloric acid is typically produced in a laboratory setting by reacting chlorine dioxide with water. This reaction produces chloric acid and chlorous acid, another strong acid. In an industrial setting, chloric acid is often produced by the reaction of sodium chlorate with a strong acid, such as sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid.

Uses

Chloric acid is primarily used in the production of other chemicals, particularly perchlorates, which are salts of perchloric acid. These salts are used in a variety of applications, including as components of rocket fuel and explosives. Chloric acid is also used in some types of disinfectants and bleaches.

Safety

Due to its corrosive and oxidizing properties, chloric acid poses a significant safety risk. It can cause severe burns and eye damage, and its vapors can be harmful if inhaled. It is also a strong oxidizer, which means it can cause or contribute to the combustion of other materials. Therefore, it should be handled with care, and appropriate safety measures should be taken when working with this substance.

See also

• Chlorine
• Acid
• Oxidizing agent