What is the chemical formula for sulfuric acid? a) H2SO3 b) H2SO4 c) HSO4 d) H3SO4
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: b) H₂SO₄
Explanation:
Sulfuric acid is one of the most important industrial acids. Its correct chemical formula is H₂SO₄. This compound is a strong mineral acid composed of two hydrogen atoms (H), one sulfur atom (S), and four oxygen atoms (O). It is commonly used in batteries, fertilizers, cleaning agents, and various chemical manufacturing processes.
To understand the formula better, let’s break it down:
- The sulfur atom sits at the center of the molecule.
- It is bonded to four oxygen atoms. Two of these oxygen atoms are double-bonded to sulfur, and the other two are single-bonded to hydroxyl groups (–OH).
- The two hydrogen atoms are part of these hydroxyl groups, which makes them capable of dissociating in water.
This dissociation of hydrogen ions is what gives sulfuric acid its strong acidic properties. When dissolved in water, sulfuric acid releases two protons (H⁺), making it a diprotic acid. This means it can donate two hydrogen ions in a reaction.
The confusion often arises between H₂SO₄ and H₂SO₃, which is sulfurous acid. Sulfurous acid has only three oxygen atoms and is a weaker acid than sulfuric acid. Another distractor is HSO₄⁻, which is the bisulfate ion, a product of partial dissociation of sulfuric acid. H₃SO₄ is not a valid chemical compound.
In summary, the formula H₂SO₄ represents sulfuric acid correctly. It is a highly reactive, corrosive, and dense liquid that plays a crucial role in various scientific and industrial applications.
