🔹 Physical and Chemical Properties:
- Chemical formula: HCl
- Molar mass: 36.46 g/mol
- Concentration: ~37% (fuming)
- Appearance: Clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid
- Density: ~1.19 g/cm³ at 20 °C
- pH (diluted solution): < 1
- Vapor pressure: ~190 hPa at 20 °C
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions; vapors are corrosive and irritating
🔹 Uses:
- As a strong acid reagent in analytical chemistry for titrations, pH adjustments, and sample digestion
- In inorganic and organic synthesis to acidify mixtures or dissolve metals and salts
- Cleaning and descaling laboratory glassware, preparing acidified solutions
- Industrial and environmental applications, e.g., metal treatment, wastewater pH adjustment
⚠️ Safety Notes:
- Corrosive; causes severe burns to skin and eyes, and irritates respiratory tract
- Hazardous if ingested or inhaled; use only in fume hood or well-ventilated area
- Protective measures required: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles or face shield, and lab coat
- Storage: Keep container tightly closed, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from incompatible materials (strong bases, oxidizers, metals)