SUPERACIDITY Meaning and
Definition
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Superacidity is a term used to describe a chemical property characterized by an exceptionally high acidity level or strength. It refers to substances or solutions that exhibit a greater than usual concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) and possess the ability to release them readily in an aqueous environment. These superacidic compounds are highly corrosive and have a lower pH value compared to standard acids.
Superacidity is often associated with the ability to protonate even extremely weak bases or completely dissociate strong acids in a solvent. It is measured using the Hammett acidity function, which quantifies the concentration of acidic species. Superacids can serve as powerful catalysts or reaction mediums, enhancing the reactivity and selectivity of chemical transformations.
Superacidic substances are commonly used in various industrial processes, organic synthesis, and research laboratories. Examples of superacids include sulfuric acid (H2SO4), trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (CF3SO3H), Magic acid (FSbF6 + HF), and fluoroantimonic acid (HSbF6 + HF). These compounds are highly corrosive and require careful handling due to their potent acidity and ability to cause severe burns.
In summary, superacidity refers to the exceptional acidity exhibited by certain substances, marked by a high concentration of hydrogen ions and a low pH value. It is a valuable property in chemical reactions, often employed as catalysts or reaction mediums for their ability to protonate weak bases and dissociate strong acids.
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Hyperacidity, an excess of acid; specifically excessive acidity of the gastric juice, hyperchlorhydria.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SUPERACIDITY
- auperacidity
- zuperacidity
- xuperacidity
- duperacidity
- euperacidity
- wuperacidity
- syperacidity
- shperacidity
- sjperacidity
- siperacidity
- s8peracidity
- s7peracidity
- suoeracidity
- suleracidity
- su-eracidity
- su0eracidity
- supwracidity
- supsracidity
- supdracidity
- suprracidity
Etymology of SUPERACIDITY
The word "superacidity" is derived from combining the prefix "super-" and the root word "acidity".
The prefix "super-" comes from the Latin word "super" meaning "above", "over", or "on top of". It is commonly used to indicate something that is more than or beyond the average or normal level.
The root word "acidity" comes from the Latin word "acidus", which means "sour", "sharp", or "acidic". It refers to the properties of being acidic or having a high concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in a solution.
When these two elements are combined, "superacidity" is formed, implying an extreme or excessive level of acidity.
Similar spelling words for SUPERACIDITY
