Difference between hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid
Hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid: how are they different?
The hydrochloric and sulfuric acids They are two of the most common acids in the chemical industry. Although both are strong acids, they have some differences on their properties and applications. Next, we will see the characteristics of each of them and their main uses.
Hydrochloric acid
El hydrochloric acid It is a chemical compound formed by hydrogen and chlorine (HCl). It is a colorless and highly corrosive liquid, capable of dissolving metals and some organic materials. In industry, it is mainly used in the production of vinyl chloride, aluminum chloride and table salt.
Hydrochloric acid is also known as muriatic acid and is used in metal cleaning and rust removal on metal surfaces. Additionally, it is used in food production and in the pharmaceutical industry as a disinfectant agent.
Sulfuric acid
El sulfuric acid It is a chemical compound made up of hydrogen, sulfur and oxygen (H2SO4). It is a dense, viscous and corrosive liquid, capable of dissolving metals and organic materials. In industry, it is used in the production of fertilizers, plastics, detergents and explosives.
Sulfuric acid is also known as king of acids for its great capacity for reaction and dissolution. In addition, it is used in the production of batteries, in oil refining and in the removal of oxides and waste in industrial processes.
Conclusions
In conclusion, both hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid are strong acids used in the chemical industry. Hydrochloric acid is mainly used in the production of vinyl chloride, aluminum chloride and table salt, while sulfuric acid is used in the production of fertilizers, plastics, detergents and explosives. Both acids are highly corrosive and dangerous, so they should be handled with caution.
Lists of applications of hydrochloric and sulfuric acids
Applications of hydrochloric acid
- Vinyl chloride production
- Aluminum chloride production
- Table salt production
- Metal cleaning
- Rust removal on metal surfaces
- Food production
- Pharmaceutical industry as a disinfectant agent.
Applications of sulfuric acid
- Fertilizer production
- plastic production
- Detergent production
- Production of explosives
- Battery production
- Petroleum refining
- Elimination of oxides and waste in industrial processes
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