H2SO4
H2SO4
Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) is a highly corrosive strong mineral acid. It is a colorless to slightly yellow viscous liquid that is soluble in water at all concentrations. Sulfuric acid has a wide range of applications including in domestic acidic drain cleaners, as an electrolyte in lead-acid batteries, and in various cleaning agents.
History[edit | edit source]
Sulfuric acid was first discovered by the alchemist Jabir ibn Hayyan in the 8th century. It was later studied by the Persian physician and alchemist Muhammad ibn Zakariya al-Razi (Rhazes) in the 9th century. The modern method of producing sulfuric acid was developed by the English chemist John Roebuck in 1746.
Production[edit | edit source]
Sulfuric acid is produced by the Contact process, which involves the oxidation of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) to sulfur trioxide (SO₃), followed by the absorption of SO₃ in water. The overall chemical reaction is: SO₂ + O₂ → SO₃ SO₃ + H₂O → H₂SO₄
Properties[edit | edit source]
Sulfuric acid is a diprotic acid and shows different properties depending upon its concentration. It is hygroscopic and readily absorbs water vapor from the air. Concentrated sulfuric acid is a strong dehydrating agent and can cause severe chemical burns.
Uses[edit | edit source]
Sulfuric acid is used in a variety of industrial processes including:
- The manufacture of fertilizers, particularly superphosphate and ammonium sulfate.
- Petroleum refining to wash impurities out of gasoline and other refinery products.
- The production of chemicals such as hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, and phosphoric acid.
- In the lead-acid battery used in vehicles.
Safety[edit | edit source]
Sulfuric acid is highly corrosive and can cause severe burns upon contact with skin or eyes. It should be handled with appropriate safety precautions, including the use of personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- Contact process
- Lead-acid battery
- Superphosphate
- Ammonium sulfate
- Hydrochloric acid
- Nitric acid
- Phosphoric acid
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
