Corrosive

Corrosive refers to a substance that has the ability to destroy or damage other substances upon contact by means of a chemical reaction.

Definition

A corrosive substance is one that will destroy and damage other substances with which it comes into contact. It may attack a great variety of materials, including metals and various organic compounds, but people are mostly concerned with its effects on flesh.

Types of Corrosive Substances

Corrosive substances can be classified into two types: Acids and Bases.

Acids

Acids are substances that have a pH less than 7.0. They have the ability to give off hydrogen ions (H+) and are capable of reacting with metals and bases to form salts. Examples of acids include hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and nitric acid.

Bases

Bases are substances that have a pH greater than 7.0. They are capable of accepting hydrogen ions and can react with acids to form salts. Examples of bases include sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and calcium hydroxide.

Effects of Corrosive Substances

Corrosive substances can cause severe damage to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. They can also cause damage to the environment if not properly handled and disposed of.

Safety Measures

It is important to handle corrosive substances with care. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and eye protection, and following proper storage and disposal procedures.

See Also

• Acid
• Base
• pH
• Chemical reaction
• Personal protective equipment

Corrosive Resources
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