Uses of Sulphuric Acid

Analytical Chemistry

1. Titrations: Used as a standard solution in acid-base titrations.
2. pH Adjustment: Employed to adjust the pH of solutions to acidic levels.
3. Preparation of Standard Solutions: Utilized in the preparation of various standard solutions for analytical purposes.

Synthesis

1. Reagent for Synthesis: Acts as a catalyst and dehydrating agent in the synthesis of many chemicals, including esters and ethers.
2. Dehydration Reactions: Removes water from organic compounds, such as in the conversion of alcohols to alkenes.

Cleaning and Etching

1. Cleaning Laboratory Equipment: Removes organic and inorganic residues from glassware and other lab equipment.
2. Etching: Used in the preparation and cleaning of surfaces for microscopy and other analysis techniques.

Sample Preparation

1. Digestion of Samples: Breaks down complex matrices in sample preparation for analysis by techniques such as atomic absorption spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis.
2. Destruction of Organic Material: Used in wet digestion procedures to oxidize organic matter in samples.

Testing and Quality Control

1. Acid Tests: Employed in qualitative and quantitative tests for the presence of various substances.
2. Battery Acid Analysis: Analyzing the concentration and condition of electrolyte solutions in lead-acid batteries.

Catalysis

1. Catalyst in Chemical Reactions: Functions as a catalyst in various chemical reactions, including esterification and hydration reactions.

Dehydrating Agent

1. Dehydration of Organic Compounds: Dehydrates sugar to produce carbon and water in demonstrations of chemical reactions.
2. Drying Gases: Used to dry certain gases by passing them through concentrated sulphuric acid.