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Hydrochloric Acid

Updated: May 10, 2024

Hydrochloric acid, often abbreviated as HCl, is a highly corrosive and strong mineral acid with many industrial applications.

Bottle of Hydrochloric acid
Hydrochloric Acid

Hydrochloric acid, often abbreviated as HCl, is a highly corrosive and strong mineral acid with many industrial applications.


Hydrochloric acid is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid with a pungent odor. It is a solution of hydrogen chloride gas in water, typically with a concentration ranging from dilute (about 10%) to concentrated (up to approximately 37%).


Chemical Formula: HCl

Chemical Structure: H-Cl


Properties:


Corrosive: Hydrochloric acid is highly corrosive to metals and organic materials, and it can cause severe burns upon contact with skin or eyes.

Strong Acid: It is classified as a strong acid due to its ability to fully dissociate in water, releasing hydrogen ions (H⁺).

Solubility: Hydrochloric acid is highly soluble in water, forming a clear solution.

Boiling Point: The boiling point of hydrochloric acid is around 83.6°C (182.5°F) for the concentrated form.


Uses:

Industrial Cleaning: Hydrochloric acid is commonly used for cleaning and etching metals, such as in steel production and metal cleaning processes.

pH Adjustment: It is used in various industrial processes for pH adjustment and neutralization of alkaline solutions.

Chemical Synthesis: Hydrochloric acid is an important reagent in chemical synthesis, particularly in the production of organic compounds and pharmaceuticals.

Water Treatment: It is used in water treatment processes for pH control and to remove impurities from water.

Laboratory Reagent: Hydrochloric acid is used as a laboratory reagent for various analytical and experimental purposes.


Safety Precautions:

- Due to its corrosive nature, hydrochloric acid should be handled with extreme caution.

- Protective equipment, including gloves, goggles, and appropriate clothing, should be worn when handling hydrochloric acid.

- It should be stored in tightly sealed containers, away from incompatible materials and heat sources.


Packaging: Hydrochloric acid is typically available in various packaging options, including bulk containers, drums, and smaller bottles or carboys.


Regulatory Compliance: Products containing hydrochloric acid must comply

with relevant safety regulations and guidelines regarding storage, handling, transportation, and disposal.


Manufacturer: Various chemical manufacturers produce hydrochloric acid for industrial, commercial, and laboratory use.

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