Hydrochloric Acid (HCL) – 2.5 Litres
Key Features:
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Chemical Formula: HCl.
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Concentration: Commercially available in concentrated form (about 37% HCl) or in diluted solutions.
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Appearance: A clear, colorless liquid with a strong, sharp smell due to the release of hydrogen chloride gas when it reacts with air.
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Properties: It is a strong acid, highly corrosive, and can dissolve many metals. When concentrated, it is highly reactive, producing toxic fumes.
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Boiling Point: It has a low boiling point of about 110°C (when concentrated).
Use in Laboratory:
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Acid-Base Reactions: It is commonly used in titrations to determine the concentration of bases.
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Cleaning Agent: Due to its corrosive nature, it is used to clean metal surfaces, such as in removing rust (as pickling acid in metal industries).
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Chemical Synthesis: In the preparation of chlorides, organic compounds, and for the production of other chemicals.
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pH Adjustment: Used to lower the pH of solutions in various chemical processes and to prepare acid solutions for catalysis.
Industrial Use:
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Production of PVC: Used in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other plastics.
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Refining Metal: It is involved in the refining of metals, especially in the production of iron and steel.
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Water Treatment: Used for pH control in water treatment plants.
Safety:
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Highly corrosive, can cause severe burns to skin and eyes.
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Toxic Fumes: Releases hydrogen chloride gas when exposed to air, which can be harmful to respiratory health.
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Always use protective equipment (gloves, goggles, acid-resistant clothing) and work in a well-ventilated area or a fume hood.
Hydrochloric acid is an essential industrial and laboratory acid with a broad range of applications, from chemical synthesis to cleaning and metal treatment, due to its strong acidic and reactive properties.
