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What are examples of strong acids?

Examples of strong acids include hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid, and nitric acid.

Strong acids are substances that completely ionise in water, meaning they fully dissociate into their ions. This is in contrast to weak acids, which only partially ionise. The strength of an acid is determined by the extent to which it ionises in water.

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a common example of a strong acid. It is used in laboratories and industry for a variety of purposes, such as cleaning metal surfaces and processing leather. When dissolved in water, it completely ionises to form hydrogen ions (H+) and chloride ions (Cl-).

Sulphuric acid (H2SO4) is another strong acid, widely used in the production of fertilisers, dyes, and detergents. It is also used in car batteries. When sulphuric acid dissolves in water, it fully dissociates into two hydrogen ions (2H+) and one sulphate ion (SO4^2-).

Nitric acid (HNO3) is a strong acid used in the manufacture of fertilisers and explosives, as well as in etching and metal cleaning. In water, nitric acid completely ionises to form a hydrogen ion (H+) and a nitrate ion (NO3-).

Remember, the term 'strong' does not refer to the concentration of the acid, but rather its ability to ionise in water. Even a dilute solution of a strong acid will fully ionise. It's also important to handle these acids with care, as they can be corrosive and harmful.

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