Which substance has the chemical formula H2SO4?

The substance with the chemical formula H₂SO₄ is sulfuric acid. Sulfuric acid is a strong and highly corrosive acid that is commonly used in various industrial processes and in laboratory settings.

Sulfuric acid is composed of two hydrogen atoms (H₂), one sulfur atom (S), and four oxygen atoms (O₄). Its chemical formula indicates that it contains two hydrogen ions (H⁺) and one sulfate ion (SO₄^2-).

This powerful acid is widely used in the production of fertilizers, detergents, dyes, and various chemicals. It is also used in the petroleum industry for refining oil and in the manufacturing of batteries. Additionally, sulfuric acid plays a crucial role in numerous laboratory techniques and experiments.

Due to its highly corrosive nature, sulfuric acid must be handled with extreme caution. It can cause severe burns and damage to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Therefore, it is important to follow proper safety protocols and wear protective equipment when working with this substance.

Sulfuric acid is produced on a large scale through the contact process. This involves the reaction of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and oxygen (O₂) in the presence of a catalyst to form sulfur trioxide (SO₃). The sulfur trioxide is then mixed with water to produce sulfuric acid.

In conclusion, the substance with the chemical formula H₂SO₄ is sulfuric acid. This highly corrosive acid is widely used in various industries and laboratory settings. It is important to handle sulfuric acid with extreme care due to its hazardous nature.

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