Is sulfuric acid ionic?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether sulfuric acid is an ionic compound. This involves understanding the chemical structure of sulfuric acid and its dissociation in water.
Answer
Pure sulfuric acid is covalently bonded.
Pure sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is covalent, but it ionizes into hydronium ions (H3O+) and hydrogen sulfate ions (HSO4-) in water.
Answer for screen readers
Pure sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is covalent, but it ionizes into hydronium ions (H3O+) and hydrogen sulfate ions (HSO4-) in water.
More Information
Sulfuric acid is a powerful acid and a strong oxidizer, commonly used in industrial processes such as fertilizer production, petroleum refining, and chemical synthesis. Its ability to ionize in water is crucial for its acidic properties.
Tips
Students often confuse the pure covalent nature of sulfuric acid with its behavior in aqueous solutions. Remember the context in which you're evaluating the compound.
Sources
- Is sulphuric acid ionic or covalent? - Echemi - echemi.com
- Is H2SO4 covalent or ionic compound? Please I need your answer in concisely - Toppr - toppr.com
- Sulfuric acid - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
