Which acid is known as 'Oil of Vitriol'? MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Which acid is known as 'Oil of Vitriol'?
A. Nitric acid
B. Sulphuric acid
C. Acetic acid
D. Hydrochloric acid
Answer: Option B
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
Sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄) is historically called oil of vitriol because it was prepared by distilling green vitriol (ferrous sulfate heptahydrate). It is a dense, oily liquid. Nitric acid is aqua fortis, hydrochloric acid was called muriatic acid or spirit of salt. Sulphuric acid is the king of chemicals due to its widespread use in industries like fertilizer, petroleum refining, and chemical synthesis.

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Practice More chemistry Questions

Question #1
Ionic compounds have high melting points because:
A. The electrostatic forces between ions are strong
B. They are soft
C. They are covalent
D. They have weak intermolecular forces

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
Ionic compounds consist of positive and negative ions held together by strong electrostatic forces of attraction (ionic bonds). A large amount of energy is required to overcome these forces, resulting in high melting and boiling points. They also conduct electricity when molten or in solution.

This question belongs to: Science chemistry
Question #2
Assertion (A): A reaction between an acid and a base is called a neutralization reaction. Reason (R): Neutralization always produces a neutral solution with pH exactly 7.
A. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
B. A is false, but R is true
C. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
D. A is true, but R is false

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Neutralization is the reaction of an acid with a base to produce salt and water. However, the resulting solution is not always neutral (pH 7) because the salt may undergo hydrolysis. If the acid is strong and base weak (e.g., HCl + NH₄OH), the salt (NH₄Cl) is acidic, pH < 7. If acid is weak and base strong (CH₃COOH + NaOH), salt is basic, pH > 7. Only strong acid-strong base gives pH 7.

This question belongs to: Science chemistry
Question #3
Which of the following salts is used in fire extinguishers?
A. Sodium bicarbonate
B. Calcium sulfate
C. Potassium nitrate
D. Sodium chloride

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) is used in soda-acid fire extinguishers. It reacts with sulfuric acid to produce CO₂, which smothers the fire. Also, dry powder extinguishers use NaHCO₃. It is also baking soda.

This question belongs to: Science chemistry