Sulfuric Acid (H₂SO₄): Properties, Uses, and Importance
Introduction
Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) is one of the most important industrial chemicals in the world. It is a strong mineral
acid composed of hydrogen, sulfur, and oxygen. Known for its highly corrosive nature, sulfuric acid plays
a critical role in various industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, medicine, and energy
production. Its wide applications have earned it the title of the “king of chemicals.”
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Physical and Chemical Properties
Chemical Formula: H₂SO₄
Molar Mass: 98.079 g/mol
Appearance: Colorless to slightly yellow, oily liquid
Density: ~1.84 g/cm³ (at room temperature)
Boiling Point: 337 °C
Melting Point: 10 °C
Nature: Strong acid, hygroscopic (absorbs water readily), and highly corrosive
Chemical Behavior
Strongly acidic and reacts vigorously with water, releasing a large amount of heat.
Acts as a powerful dehydrating agent (removes water from compounds, e.g., turning sugar into carbon).
Strong oxidizing agent at high concentrations.
Reacts with metals, bases, and carbonates to form sulfates.
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Methods of Production
The primary industrial method for producing sulfuric acid is the Contact Process, which involves:
1. Burning sulfur (S) or sulfide ores to produce sulfur dioxide (SO₂).
2. Oxidizing SO₂ to sulfur trioxide (SO₃) using a vanadium(V) oxide catalyst.
3. Absorbing SO₃ in concentrated H₂SO₄ to form oleum (H₂S₂O₇).
4. Diluting oleum with water to obtain concentrated sulfuric acid.
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Uses of Sulfuric Acid
Sulfuric acid is one of the most widely used industrial chemicals, with applications such as:
1. Fertilizers – Used in the manufacture of phosphate fertilizers like superphosphate and ammonium
sulfate.
2. Chemical Industry – Essential in the production of hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, synthetic detergents,
dyes, and explosives.
3. Petroleum Refining – Helps in refining crude oil by removing impurities.
4. Batteries – Used as the electrolyte in lead-acid storage batteries.
5. Metal Processing – Employed in pickling (cleaning) metals before further processing.
6. Pharmaceuticals – Used in drug synthesis and purification.
7. Water Treatment – Helps in pH control and industrial effluent treatment.
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Safety and Hazards
Sulfuric acid is highly dangerous and must be handled with extreme caution:
Health Risks: Causes severe burns on contact with skin and eyes; inhalation of vapors can damage
respiratory tissues.
Environmental Risks: Can cause acidification of water bodies, harming aquatic life.
Handling Precautions: Always add acid to water (not water to acid), wear protective equipment, and
ensure proper ventilation when using.
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Importance in Industry
The production of sulfuric acid is often considered an indicator of a nation’s industrial strength. Since it
is involved in the manufacture of countless products, from fertilizers to pharmaceuticals, its demand
reflects the growth of agriculture, energy, and chemical sectors worldwide.
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Conclusion
Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) is an essential chemical with widespread applications in modern life. While it is
extremely useful, it must be handled responsibly due to its highly corrosive nature and potential health
hazards. Its central role in industry highlights its importance as a backbone of chemical manufacturing
and global economic development.
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