what is mineral acid

A mineral acid, also known as an inorganic acid, is an acid derived from one or more inorganic compounds, as opposed to organic acids which are acidic organic compounds. All mineral acids form hydrogen ions and the conjugate base when dissolved in water. Mineral acids are highly soluble in water but tend to be insoluble in organic solvents. They are stronger acids than carboxylic acids because they are completely or partially ionized. Mineral acids are used in many sectors of the chemical industry as feedstocks for the synthesis of other chemicals, both organic and inorganic. Large quantities of these acids, especially sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and hydrochloric acid, are manufactured for commercial use in large plants. Mineral acids are also used directly for their corrosive properties. For example, a dilute solution of hydrochloric acid is used for removing the deposits from the inside of boilers, with precautions taken to prevent the corrosion of the boiler by the acid. This process is known as descaling. Some common mineral acids include sulfuric acid, nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, hydrofluoric acid, hydrobromic acid, perchloric acid, and hydroiodic acid.