Sulfuric Acid: The King of Chemicals

Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) is often referred to as the “king of chemicals” due to its massive industrial importance and role in producing countless other chemicals. It is one of the strongest mineral acids, widely used in industries, laboratories, and manufacturing processes. Its versatility, reactivity, and dehydrating properties make it a cornerstone of modern chemistry.

What is Sulfuric Acid?

Sulfuric acid is a dense, oily, colorless to slightly yellow liquid, known for being highly corrosive and reactive. It is a strong diprotic acid, meaning it can donate two protons (H⁺) in aqueous solution, and it also acts as a powerful oxidizing and dehydrating agent.

Chemical Formula: H₂SO₄

Molecular Weight: 98.08 g/mol

CAS Number: 7664-93-9

Other Names: Oil of vitriol, battery acid (diluted)

Physical and Chemical Properties

Property	Value
Appearance	Clear to slightly yellow viscous liquid
Odor	Odorless (but choking fumes when hot)
Density (98%)	~1.84 g/cm³
Boiling Point	~337 °C (decomposes before boiling)
Freezing Point	~10.3 °C
pKa1 / pKa2	~ -3 / 1.99
Solubility	Miscible with water (exothermic)

Caution: Always add acid to water, not the other way around, to prevent violent reactions and splashing.

Types and Concentrations

Concentrated Sulfuric Acid (98%)
- Used in industrial processes and laboratories
Battery Acid (30–35%)
- Found in lead-acid batteries
Dilute Sulfuric Acid (≤10%)
- Used in chemical education, cleaning agents, and neutralization

Major Applications of Sulfuric Acid

1. Fertilizer Industry

Used in the production of phosphoric acid, which is then used to make phosphate fertilizers like superphosphate and ammonium phosphate

2. Chemical Manufacturing

Key raw material in producing:
- Hydrochloric acid
- Nitric acid
- Sulfonic acids
- Synthetic detergents

3. Petroleum Refining

Used in alkylation processes and removing impurities from fuels

4. Batteries

Acts as the electrolyte in lead-acid batteries used in automobiles and power backups

5. Metallurgy

Employed in ore processing, metal pickling, and descaling iron and steel

6. Textile and Dyeing Industry

Used for pH adjustment, bleaching, and preparation of fibers

7. Cleaning and Descaling

Found in drain cleaners and industrial descaling agents

Laboratory Uses

Dehydrating agent (removes water from compounds, even sugars)
Oxidizer (concentrated form can char organic materials)
Used in acid-base titrations and preparation of acid solutions

Safety and Handling

Sulfuric acid is highly corrosive and can cause severe chemical burns and thermal injury upon contact. Proper precautions are essential.

Health Hazards:

Skin/Eye Contact: Severe burns and permanent damage
Inhalation: Irritating to respiratory system; can cause pulmonary edema
Ingestion: Corrosive to mucous membranes and internal organs

Precautionary Measures:

Wear acid-resistant gloves, goggles, and lab coat
Always use in a well-ventilated area or fume hood
Store in non-metal, corrosion-resistant containers
Keep away from organic materials, bases, water, and oxidizers

Environmental Considerations

Releases sulfur oxides (SOx), contributing to acid rain
Spills can severely damage soil and aquatic life
Disposal must follow hazardous waste protocols

Conclusion

Sulfuric acid is one of the most important industrial chemicals, with applications that touch nearly every sector—from agriculture and automotive to textiles and electronics. While it is essential for economic development and modern living, sulfuric acid is also dangerously reactive and corrosive, requiring careful storage, handling, and disposal.

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