Question

Which chemical is known as king of chemicals?

• A. ${\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{CO}}_3$
• B. $\mathrm{HCl}$
• C. ${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{COOH}$
• D. ${\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4$

Answer 1

The correct option is D

${\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4$

Explanation for the correct option

Option D: ${\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4$

• Because it is used to create so many other valuable compounds, Sulphuric acid $\left({\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4\right)$ is known as the “King of Chemicals.”
• Sulphuric acid is corrosive and has high acidic characteristics. It functions as an oxidizing and dehydrating agent at greater concentrations.
• Sulphuric acid is used in the manufacture of fertilizers, pigments, dyes, pharmaceuticals, explosives, detergents, inorganic salts, petroleum refining and metallurgical processes.

Explanation for the incorrect answers

Option A: ${\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{CO}}_3$

• The acid carbonic acid is not very potent.
• A proton (${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$ cation) and a bicarbonate ion are produced when the weak acid ${\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{CO}}_3$ dissociates (${{\mathrm{HCO}}_3}^{-}$ anion). In aqueous solutions, this chemical only partially dissociates.

Option B: $\mathrm{HCl}$

• $\mathrm{HCl}$ is not known as the King of Acids.

Option C: ${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{COOH}$

• The most significant carboxylic acid, with the molecular formula ${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{COOH}$ is acetic acid, also known as ethanoic acid.
• Vinegar is a diluted acetic acid solution created by the fermentation and oxidation of natural sugars.

Hence, Sulphuric acid$\left({\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4\right)$ is known as king of chemicals.