Question

Supply the formula for the acids: (a) hydrofluoric acid; (b) nitric acid; (c) phosphorous acid; (d) sulfuric acid.

Short answer

(a) Hydrofluoric acid: \(\text{HF}\), (b) Nitric acid: \(\text{HNO}_3\), (c) Phosphorous acid: \(\text{H}_3\text{PO}_3\), (d) Sulfuric acid: \(\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4\)

Step-by-step solution

Hydrofluoric acid

The chemical formula for Hydrofluoric acid is \(\text{HF}\) where H stands for Hydrogen and F for Fluorine

Nitric acid

The chemical formula for Nitric acid is \(\text{HNO}_3\) where H stands for Hydrogen, N for Nitrogen and O for Oxygen

Phosphorous acid

The chemical formula for Phosphorous acid is \(\text{H}_3\text{PO}_3\) where H stands for Hydrogen, P for Phosphorus and O for Oxygen

Sulfuric acid

The chemical formula for Sulfuric acid is \(\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4\) where H stands for Hydrogen, S for Sulfur and O for Oxygen

Key concepts

Acids

Acids are an important group of chemicals that can release hydrogen ions (\( ext{H}^+\)) when dissolved in water. They typically have a pH less than 7, which makes them acidic. Acids can be recognized by their sour taste and their ability to react with bases to form a salt and water, a process known as neutralization.

• Acids can be either strong or weak depending on their ability to dissociate in water.
• Examples of common acids include hydrochloric acid (\( ext{HCl}\)), sulfuric acid (\( ext{H}_2 ext{SO}_4\)), and citric acid found in citrus fruits.

Different acids have unique chemical formulas that indicate the type of atoms they contain. This section will help you understand the chemical formulas of hydrofluoric acid, nitric acid, and sulfuric acid.

Hydrofluoric Acid

Hydrofluoric acid is a unique and very dangerous acid known for its ability to dissolve glass. Its chemical formula is \( ext{HF}\), consisting of hydrogen (H) and fluorine (F). Despite not being a strong acid, HF can penetrate tissue and release fluoride ions that cause deep burns.

• HF is used in industrial processes, such as etching glass and in the production of certain chemicals.
• It is also utilized in oil refineries for processing crude oil.

When handling hydrofluoric acid, strict safety protocols must be followed due to its corrosive nature. It is critically important to handle it with care and use appropriate protective equipment.

Nitric Acid

Nitric acid is a strong acid with the chemical formula \( ext{HNO}_3\). It consists of hydrogen (H), nitrogen (N), and oxygen (O). Nitric acid is highly corrosive and has powerful oxidizing properties.

• This acid is typically used in the manufacturing of fertilizers and explosives.
• Nitric acid is also employed in the refining of metals and purification processes.

Nitric acid turns proteins yellow upon contact, which is an indication of its strong reactivity. It's important to use this acid cautiously, as it can cause severe burns and toxic fumes.

Sulfuric Acid

Sulfuric acid is one of the most widely used industrial acids and has the chemical formula \( ext{H}_2 ext{SO}_4\). It includes hydrogen (H), sulfur (S), and oxygen (O). This highly corrosive acid is known for its dehydrating properties and a strong ability to absorb water.

• Sulfuric acid is commonly used in car batteries, where it acts as the electrolyte.
• It is crucial in the production of fertilizers, cleaning metals, and manufacturing chemicals.

The transparent, oily liquid of sulfuric acid must be handled carefully, as contact with skin can result in severe burns. Proper storage and handling are critical when working with this potent acid to prevent any incidents.