Formation and utility of acids, bases and salts in day-to-day life
Answers
1. Uses of Acids
Vinegar, a diluted solution of acetic acid, has various household applications. It is primarily used as a food preservative.
Citric acid is an integral part of lemon juice and orange juice. It can also be used in the preservation of food.
Sulfuric acid is widely used in batteries. The batteries used to start the engines of automobiles commonly contain this acid.
The industrial production of explosives, dyes, paints, and fertilizers involves the use of sulfuric acid and nitric acid.
Phosphoric acid is a key ingredient in many soft drinks.
2. Uses of Bases
The manufacturing of soap and paper involves the use of sodium hydroxide. NaOH is also used in the manufacture of rayon.
Ca(OH)2, also known as slaked lime or calcium hydroxide, is used to manufacture bleaching powder.
Dry mixes used in painting or decoration are made with the help of calcium hydroxide.
Magnesium hydroxide, also known as milk of magnesia, is commonly used as a laxative. It also reduces any excess acidity in the human stomach and is, therefore, used as an antacid.
Ammonium hydroxide is a very important reagent used in laboratories.
Any excess acidity in soils can be neutralized by employing slaked lime.
Uses of salt
Salt has long been used for flavoring and for preserving food. It has also been used in tanning, dyeing and bleaching, and the production of pottery, soap, and chlorine. Today, it is widely used in the chemical industry.