chapter 7.  ELEMENTS OF GROUPS 16, 17 AND 18 class 12 chemistry textbook solution

3. Answer the following.

xiii. Give two uses of HCl.

Answer:-

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) has several important uses in various industries and applications. Here are two common uses of HCl:

  1. Chemical Synthesis:

    • Hydrochloric acid is widely used in the chemical industry as a reagent and catalyst in various chemical reactions. It is commonly used in the production of a wide range of chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, dyes, and synthetic polymers.
    • In organic synthesis, HCl is often used to facilitate reactions such as the conversion of alkenes to alkyl halides, the hydrolysis of esters, and the formation of various intermediates in chemical processes.
    • HCl is used as a source of chloride ions (Cl-) in chemical reactions, making it an essential component in many synthetic procedures.
  2. pH Adjustment and Water Treatment:

    • Hydrochloric acid is used for pH adjustment in water treatment and wastewater treatment facilities. It can be added to control the pH of water to make it more suitable for various industrial processes, including metal plating, food and beverage production, and swimming pool maintenance.
    • In the treatment of drinking water and wastewater, HCl can help neutralize alkaline substances and prevent the formation of scale deposits in water pipes and equipment.
    • It is also used to regenerate ion exchange resins in water softeners by replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions.

These are just two of the many applications of hydrochloric acid in various industries, where its strong acidic properties and reactivity make it a valuable chemical reagent. However, it’s important to handle hydrochloric acid with care, as it is a strong acid that can be corrosive and should be used in accordance with safety guidelines and protocols.

chapter 7.  ELEMENTS OF GROUPS 16, 17 AND 18 Textbook Solution page 164