Sulfuric acid is the product of the reaction between water and sulfur trioxide. It is a chemical compound manufactured for industrial use. It is primarily used in the production of fertilizer. However, sulfuric acid is also a component of synthetic detergents, dyes, explosives, drugs, other acids, glue and wood preservatives. It is also used in the purification and refining of oil. The uses of sulfuric acid also extend to the processing of iron and steel.
The discovery of sulfuric acid is attributed to an 8th-century scientist named Jabir ibn Hayyan. Originally, sulfuric acid was known as oil of vitriol due to its glassy appearance. Vitriol is Latin for glass. During the 17th century, Johann Glauber, a German chemist, produced sulfuric acid by burning sulfur together with saltpeter and then applying steam. In the 18th century, Peregrine Phillips improved upon the process of manufacturing sulfuric acid and today all of the world's sulfuric acid is produced this way.
Sulfuric acid is an extremely poisonous compound when ingested or inhaled. Symptoms that may occur if ingested include breathing difficulties, mouth and throat burns, drooling, fever, low blood pressure, vomiting and vision loss. Symptoms that may occur if inhaled are weakness, chest pain, choking, dizziness, rapid pulse and difficulty breathing. When it is suspected that someone has taken sulfuric acid internally, it is important to remember to avoid inducing vomiting. The person should be given milk or water to dilute the acid and you should contact the National Poison Control Center, whereupon, you must transport the person to the hospital.
It is interesting to note that sulfuric acid has been discovered on one of Jupiter's moons. When coal or oil is burned, sulfuric acid is formed; when it comes in contact with oxygen in the atmosphere it becomes the main component of acid rain. By heating an alkyl hydrogen sulfate and applying sulfuric acid, you can manufacture synthetic alcohols. Sulfuric acid is considered a pollutant; however, it can be used to preserve fruits and vegetables and to bleach flour.