Inorganic acids are a type of acid that do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds in their molecular structure. They are usually derived from inorganic compounds such as minerals and non-living sources. Inorganic acids can be strong or weak, depending on their dissociation or ionization in water.
These acids are commonly used in industrial processes such as metal cleaning, fertilizer production, and battery manufacturing, as well as in laboratory experiments and chemical analysis. Inorganic acids are typically highly corrosive and reactive, and they can cause burns and other health hazards if not handled properly.
The strongest known acid is fluoroantimonic acid. Fluoroantimonic acid is a mixture of hydrofluoric acid and antimony pentafluoride.
| Name Formula | Common Use | Also remember |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrochloric acid HCl | Pickling of steel | Gastric acid secreted by stomach mainly contains HCl. |
| Nitric acid HNO3 | Production of fertilisers | Nitric acid is produced by electric discharge in the atmosphere such as lightning. Known as Aqua Fortis in ancient times. |
| Sulphuric acid H2SO4 | As an electrolyte in lead-acid batteries. | Known as Oil of Vitriol in ancient times. |
| Phosphoric acid H3PO4 | Used in beverages like colas to give a tangy taste. | - |
| Hydroflouric acid HF | Etching (writing or marking) of glass | Stored in plastic containers. |
| Carbonic acid H2CO3 | Making of soft drinks and other bubbly drinks | CO2 in air combines with water in the ocean to form carbonic acid. Ocean acidification thus caused is of grave environmental concern. |
| Boric acid H3BO3 | 1. Antiseptic 2. Eye wash 3. Socks and shoes to prevent athlete's foot | - |