What is the chemical formula of Sulfuric Acid?

Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) is one of the most important and widely used inorganic acids in chemistry and industry. Its molecular formula shows that it contains two hydrogen (H) atoms, one sulfur (S) atom, and four oxygen (O) atoms. This combination forms a strong diprotic acid, meaning it can release two hydrogen ions (H⁺) when dissolved in water.

Structurally, the sulfur atom is at the center, surrounded by four oxygen atoms. Two of these oxygens are bonded to hydrogen, forming hydroxyl groups (–OH), while the other two are double-bonded to sulfur. This arrangement gives sulfuric acid its strong acidic nature and high reactivity.

The chemical formula can be broken down as follows:

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  H₂ → Two hydrogen atoms contribute to its acidity.

  
  


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  S → One sulfur atom acts as the central atom.

  
  


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  O₄ → Four oxygen atoms provide the oxyacid character.

  
  

Sulfuric acid is a colorless, oily liquid that is highly corrosive. It has a strong affinity for water, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air. When mixed with water, the reaction is highly exothermic, releasing a large amount of heat. Therefore, it must always be added to water slowly, never the reverse.

Industrially, sulfuric acid is known as the “king of chemicals” because of its vast number of applications. It is used in:

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  Fertilizer production (manufacture of ammonium sulfate and superphosphate)

  
  


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  Petroleum refining

  
  


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  Battery acid in lead-acid batteries

  
  


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  Chemical synthesis of dyes, detergents, and explosives

  
  

In nature, it contributes to acid rain when sulfur dioxide (SO₂) from industrial emissions reacts with oxygen and water in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid droplets.

In conclusion, the chemical formula H₂SO₄ represents sulfuric acid, a strong, diprotic, and highly important compound in both chemistry and industry due to its reactive and versatile properties