Question

Write the chemical formula for each of the following household chemicals: (a) acetic acid (vinegar solution) (b) aqueous nitrogen trihydride (ammonia solution) (c) aqueous magnesium hydroxide (milk of magnesia) (d) aqueous sodium hydrogen sulfate (porcelain cleaner)

Short answer

(a) \( \text{CH}_3\text{COOH} \), (b) \( \text{NH}_3\text{(aq)} \), (c) \( \text{Mg(OH)}_2\text{(aq)} \), (d) \( \text{NaHSO}_4\text{(aq)} \).

Step-by-step solution

Identify Acetic Acid

The chemical formula for acetic acid, commonly found in vinegar, is \( \text{CH}_3\text{COOH} \). Acetic acid is a weak acid used in various household applications.

Identify Aqueous Nitrogen Trihydride

The chemical formula for aqueous nitrogen trihydride, known as ammonia solution, is \( \text{NH}_3\text{(aq)} \). Ammonia is often used as a cleaning agent.

Identify Aqueous Magnesium Hydroxide

The chemical formula for aqueous magnesium hydroxide, commonly known as milk of magnesia, is \( \text{Mg(OH)}_2\text{(aq)} \). It is used as an antacid and laxative.

Identify Aqueous Sodium Hydrogen Sulfate

The chemical formula for aqueous sodium hydrogen sulfate, used in porcelain cleaners, is \( \text{NaHSO}_4\text{(aq)} \). It is effective in removing mineral deposits.

Key concepts

Acetic Acid

Acetic acid is a simple, yet widely used chemical found in your everyday kitchen
as it is a major component of vinegar. The chemical formula for acetic acid is \( \text{CH}_3\text{COOH} \).
This molecule consists of two carbon atoms, four hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms,
showcasing its organic nature through the presence of carbon. Here are a few key points about acetic acid:

• It is classified as a weak acid, meaning it does not completely dissociate in water.
• Vinegar typically contains about 5-8% acetic acid, giving it the characteristic tangy taste.
• Aside from cooking, acetic acid serves as an excellent natural preservative.

Its mild acidity also makes it useful for cleaning purposes and in the production of chemical compounds.

Ammonia Solution

Ammonia solution is a common household cleaner known for its effectiveness and versatility.
The chemical formula is \( \text{NH}_3\text{(aq)} \), which stands for ammonia dissolved in water.
Ammonia consists of one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms, forming a simple, yet powerful compound.
Here’s what you should know about ammonia solution:

• It acts as a base, opposite to acids, and has a high pH level.
• Ammonia is excellent for breaking down grease and dirt, making it a popular cleaning agent.
• It is essential to use ammonia in well-ventilated areas
  due to its strong odor and potential irritant effects on the respiratory system.

Always handle household ammonia with care to ensure safe usage.

Magnesium Hydroxide

Magnesium hydroxide, also called milk of magnesia, is widely known for its medical applications.
The chemical formula \( \text{Mg(OH)}_2\text{(aq)} \) indicates its composition of magnesium, oxygen, and hydrogen.
Let's explore some essential aspects of magnesium hydroxide:

• It serves as a vital antacid, helping to neutralize stomach acid and relieve indigestion.
• Additionally, it acts as a laxative for occasional constipation, drawing water into the intestines to ease bowel movement.
• Magnesium hydroxide is typically found in a suspension, which is a mixture of a solid and liquid.

Understanding its uses can aid in appreciating its significance beyond its basic chemical structure.

Sodium Hydrogen Sulfate

Sodium hydrogen sulfate, with the formula \( \text{NaHSO}_4\text{(aq)} \), plays a role in household cleaning
due to its effective ability to remove mineral deposits. Sodium hydrogen sulfate consists of sodium, hydrogen, sulfur, and oxygen.
Knowing some interesting facts about sodium hydrogen sulfate can deepen your understanding:

• It is considered an acid salt, derived from the partial neutralization of sulfuric acid.
• In cleaners, it helps to dissolve hard water stains and scale, often found in bathrooms.
• Its acidic nature is useful in adjusting pH levels in various solutions.

It's important to handle with care to avoid unnecessary irritation, as it can be corrosive.