DISULPHURIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Disulphuric acid, also known as pyrosulfuric acid or fuming sulphuric acid, is a highly corrosive and unstable mineral acid. It is an oily and colorless or yellowish liquid with a pungent odor that resembles that of sulfur dioxide. The term "disulphuric" indicates that it contains two sulfur atoms.
The chemical formula of disulphuric acid is H2S2O7, and it is formed by adding sulfur trioxide (SO3) to concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4). The resulting mixture is highly exothermic and can release a large amount of heat and toxic fumes.
Disulphuric acid is commonly used in the laboratory for various purposes, including dehydration, sulfonation, and the production of other sulfuric acid derivatives. It has powerful oxidizing properties and is highly reactive with organic and inorganic substances. Due to its instability and tendency to decompose, disulphuric acid is often stored below 0°C.
Similar to sulfuric acid, disulphuric acid is highly corrosive to skin, eyes, and other body tissues. It can cause severe burns and must be handled with extreme caution. Protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat, should always be worn when dealing with disulphuric acid.
In summary, disulphuric acid is a hazardous and reactive compound that is primarily used in the laboratory for its oxidation and sulfonation capabilities. Its highly corrosive and toxic nature calls for careful storage, handling, and usage protocols to ensure safety.
Etymology of DISULPHURIC ACID
The word "disulphuric acid" is derived from the Latin term "dis-" meaning "two" and "sulphur" which refers to sulfur. The suffix "ic" indicates that the acid belongs to the "-ic acid" family. Hence, "disulphuric acid" represents an acid that contains two sulfur atoms. This naming convention is used to describe compounds containing two atoms of a designated element in their molecular structure.
