Mastering the Nomenclature of Acids: From Theory to Practice

Objectives

1. Understand the nomenclature of acids according to IUPAC rules.

2. Correctly name acids, both binary and oxygenated.

3. Apply IUPAC nomenclature to solve problems involving acid identification.

4. Develop technical communication skills when describing chemical compounds.

Contextualization

Acids are substances present in many aspects of our daily lives, from citric acid in fruits to hydrochloric acid used in industrial processes. Knowing and using the nomenclature of acids correctly is essential for the precise identification of these substances, whether in laboratories, in the manufacture of chemical products, or in industry in general. For example, hydrochloric acid (HCl) is widely used in metal cleaning and organic compound production, while sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is essential in fertilizer manufacturing and petroleum refining.

Relevance of the Theme

Mastering the nomenclature of acids is crucial in the current context, as it ensures accuracy in scientific and industrial communication, preventing errors that can have serious consequences. Professionals with this skill are highly valued in chemical, pharmaceutical, and research industries, where the safety and efficiency of processes depend on the correct identification and handling of chemical substances.

Definition of Acids According to IUPAC

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) defines acids as substances that release H+ ions (protons) when dissolved in water. This definition is essential for the correct identification and naming of acids, following an international standard that facilitates scientific communication.

• Acids are substances that release H+ ions in aqueous solution.

• IUPAC's definition standardizes the nomenclature of acids.

• Facilitates scientific and industrial communication.

General Rules for Acid Nomenclature

IUPAC rules for acid nomenclature involve identifying the presence of oxygen in the composition of the acid. Acids can be classified as binary (without oxygen) and oxygenated (with oxygen), each with its own nomenclature rules.

• Binary acids: composed of hydrogen and one non-metallic element.

• Oxygenated acids: composed of hydrogen, oxygen, and one non-metallic element.

• The suffixes 'hydric' and 'ous/ic' are used to name binary and oxygenated acids, respectively.

Nomenclature of Binary Acids

Binary acids are composed of hydrogen and one non-metallic element. The nomenclature of these acids follows the rule of adding the suffix 'hydric' to the name of the non-metallic element, preceded by the word 'acid'. For example, HCl is called hydrochloric acid.

• Composed of hydrogen and a non-metallic element.

• The suffix 'hydric' is used in the name of the acid.

• Example: HCl is hydrochloric acid.

Nomenclature of Oxygenated Acids

Oxygenated acids are composed of hydrogen, oxygen, and one non-metallic element. The nomenclature of these acids depends on the number of oxygens present. The suffix 'ous' is used for fewer oxygens and 'ic' for more oxygens. For example, H2SO3 is sulfurous acid, while H2SO4 is sulfuric acid.

• Composed of hydrogen, oxygen, and a non-metallic element.

• 'ous' is used for fewer oxygens, and 'ic' for more oxygens.

• Example: H2SO4 is sulfuric acid.

Practical Applications

• Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is used in metal cleaning and the production of organic compounds.
• Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is essential in fertilizer manufacturing and petroleum refining.
• Acetic acid (CH3COOH) is used in the food industry as a preservative and acidulant.

Key Terms

• Binary Acid: Acid composed of hydrogen and a non-metallic element.

• Oxygenated Acid: Acid composed of hydrogen, oxygen, and a non-metallic element.

• IUPAC: International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, responsible for standardizing chemical nomenclature.

Questions

• How can the correct nomenclature of acids impact the safety and efficiency of a chemist's work?

• What are the possible consequences of errors in the nomenclature of acids in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries?

• In what way does the standardization of chemical nomenclature by IUPAC facilitate global scientific communication?

Conclusion

To Reflect

The correct nomenclature of acids is essential for ensuring precise and safe communication in the field of chemistry. By mastering IUPAC rules, you not only improve your academic performance but also prepare yourself to face practical challenges in the job market. Professionals who master this skill are highly valued, as they avoid mistakes that could compromise safety and efficiency in laboratories and chemical industries. Remember that continuous practice and attention to detail are essential for consolidating this knowledge and applying it effectively.

Mini Challenge - Practical Challenge: Naming Acids in Daily Life

This mini-challenge aims to consolidate understanding of acid nomenclature rules by applying them to real-life situations and common compounds in daily life and industry.

• Form pairs with a classmate.
• Each pair must choose three common acids (one binary and two oxygenated) used in daily life or industry.
• Research the chemical formulas of these acids and name them following IUPAC rules.
• Prepare a brief presentation (2-3 minutes) explaining the naming process of each chosen acid, highlighting the importance of its correct identification in practice.
• Present your conclusions to the class.