What is acidic and flammable?

Answer 1

Sulfuric acid (alternative spelling sulphuric acid) is a highly corrosive strong mineral acid with the molecular formula H2SO4. It is a colorless to slightly yellow viscous liquid which is soluble in water at all concentrations.[2] Sometimes, it may be dark brown as dyed during industrial production process in order to alert people's awareness to its hazards.[3] The historical name of this acid is oil of vitriol.[4]

It is a diprotic acid which may show different properties depending upon its concentration. Its corrosiveness on metals, stones, skin, eyes and flesh or other materials can be mainly ascribed to its strong acidic nature and, if concentrated, strong dehydrating and oxidizing properties. Concentrated sulfuric acid can cause very serious damage upon contact as not only does it hydrolyze proteins and lipids leading to chemical burn, but also dehydrates carbohydrates resulting in secondary thermal burn. If it contacts eyes, permanent blindness may occur.[2] So, safety precautions should always be taken when using it. Moreover, it is hygroscopic, readily absorbing water vapour from the air.[2]

Possessing different chemical properties, the sulfuric acid has a wide range of applications including domestic acidic drain cleaner,[5] electrolyte in lead-acid batteries and various cleaning agents. It is also a central substance in the chemical industry. Principal uses include mineral processing, fertilizer manufacturing, oil refining, wastewater processing, and chemical synthesis. It is widely produced with different methods, such as contact process, wet sulfuric acid process and some other methods.

Answer 2

A common substance that is both acidic and flammable is ethanol, which is a type of alcohol. Ethanol can be found in products like hand sanitizer and fuel. It is important to handle ethanol with care due to its flammable nature and acidic properties.