Chromic Acid: Properties and Uses in Chemistry

by Yuvi K - December 17, 2023

What is Chromic Acid?

Chromic Acid, or chromium trioxide, (Hindi: क्रोमिक अम्ल) is an inorganic compound composed of chromium and oxygen. It is a yellow-orange solid at room temperature and has a strong acidic odour. It is a strong oxidising agent used in the production of many industrial chemicals, as well as a bleaching agent and an industrial cleaner.

Properties of Chromic Acid

The properties of Chromic Acid make it an important ingredient in a variety of industrial applications.

Chemical Properties:

Chemically, Chromic Acid is an inorganic compound of chromium and oxygen. It is soluble in water and alcohol, however, its solubility decreases with increasing temperature. Chromic Acid is an acidic compound and has a pKa of 2.9. This means that it is a very strong acid which is capable of reacting with just about any material.

Physical Properties:

Chromic Acid is a yellow-orange solid at room temperature. It has a molecular weight of 99.993 g/mol and a melting point of 183°C (361°F). It also has a boiling point of 350°C (662°F).

Uses of Chromic Acid in Chemistry

Chromic Acid is an essential ingredient in many industrial processes, due to its strong acidic and oxidising properties. It is used in the production of various chemicals, such as tanning agents, dyeing agents, and printing inks, as well as a bleaching agent and industrial cleaner.

Industrial Processes:

Chromic Acid is used in the production of a variety of industrial chemicals, such as tanning agents, dyeing agents, and printing inks. It is also used to produce chromates, which are used in metal plating and corrosion prevention.

Environmental Uses:

Chromic Acid is also used in environmental applications, such as the treatment of chromium-containing pollutants from industrial waste. It is also used in the recovery of chromium from ore and its conversion into chromates, which can then be used to manufacture a variety of other compounds.

Safety Concerns

Chromic Acid is a hazardous material and should be handled with care. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and inhalation of the vapours can cause respiratory irritation. Additionally, contact with concentrated Chromic Acid can cause severe burns. Therefore, it is important to use protective clothing, such as chemical resistant gloves and goggles, when handling Chromic Acid.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chromic Acid is a strong oxidising agent used in the production of many industrial chemicals, as well as a bleaching agent and an industrial cleaner. It is an essential ingredient in many industrial processes, due to its strong acidic and oxidising properties. However, it is important to use protective clothing when handling Chromic Acid, as contact with concentrated Chromic Acid can lead to severe burns.