Acids

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Acids are complex substances composed of hydrogen atoms that can be replaced by metals and acidic residues.

The general characteristic of acids is their ability to donate protons (H+) in aqueous solutions. They exhibit various chemical properties depending on their composition and structure.

Chemical properties of acids

Acidity: Acids react with bases, forming salts and water. This reaction is called neutralization. Acids can have a sharp, sour taste and react with acidity indicators, changing their color.
Corrosive action: Some acids, such as sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) and hydrochloric acid (HCl), can have a corrosive effect on substances like metals and nonmetals. They can dissolve metals, forming salts and aqueous solutions.
Oxidizing action: Some acids, including nitric acid (HNO₃) and perchloric acid (HClO₄), have the ability to oxidize substances. They can interact with reducing agents, taking away electrons from them and changing their oxidation state.
Esterification: Acids can form esters through reactions with alcohols. This reaction, known as esterification, is used in the synthesis of organic compounds and the production of various substances like paints, plastics, and pharmaceuticals.
Dissociation: Aqueous solutions of acids have the ability to dissociate, meaning they break down into ions. For example, hydrochloric acid (HCl) in water dissociates into H+ and Cl- ions.

These are just a few general chemical properties of acids. Different acids have distinct properties depending on their chemical composition and structure.

Types of acids

There are many different types of acids, which can be classified based on various characteristics, such as origin, composition, and chemical properties.

Here are a few main types of acids:

Inorganic acids:

Inorganic acids are acids that do not contain a carbon framework in their molecular structure.

Hydrochloric acid (HCl)
Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄₎
Nitric acid (HNO₃)
Phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄)
Perchloric acid (HClO₄)
Nitrous acid (HNO₂)
Sulfurous acid (H₂S)
Chromic acid (H₂CrO₄)
Boric acid (H₃BO₃)

Organic acids:

Organic acids are acids that contain a carbon framework in their molecular structure.

Acetic acid (CH₃COOH)
Citric acid (C₆H₈O₇)
Salicylic acid (C₇H₆O₃)
Lactic acid (C₃H₆O₃)
Ascorbic acid (C₆H₈O₆)
Stearic acid (C₁₈H₃₆O₂)
Strychnic acid (C₈H₇NO₃S)

Mineral acids:

Mineral acids are inorganic acids that contain one or more chemical elements in their molecular structure. They are typically obtained from mineral sources or through chemical processes.