Uses of Common Acids and Alkalis

Vocabulary flashcards covering the applications and uses of common alkalis and acids based on lecture notes.

Sodium hydroxide

An alkali used for making soap, washing powders, and drain cleaners.

Potassium hydroxide

An alkali used for making paint removers and dyes for fabrics.

Calcium hydroxide

An alkali used for making mortar and reducing the acidity of soil.

Aqueous ammonia (ammonia solution)

An alkali used for making fertilisers and cleaning liquids.

Magnesium hydroxide

An alkali used for making indigestion tablets and 'milk of magnesia'.

Hydrochloric acid

An acid used for cleaning metallic surfaces before they are coated.

Sulphuric acid

An acid used for functioning as electrolyte in batteries, making plastics and fertilisers.

Nitric acid

An acid used for making fertilisers and explosives.

Ethanoic (acetic) acid

An acid used for preserving food and for cooking.

Citric acid

An acid used for making health food.

Phosphoric acid

An acid used for making fertilisers and inhibiting the rusting of iron.