Lead pipes are readily corroded by

Options

A. `H_(2)SO_(4)`
B. `HCl`
C. `CH_(3)COOH`
D. pure water

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Material**: Lead pipes are made of lead (Pb), which is known for its malleability and resistance to corrosion in certain environments.

2. **Understand Corrosion**: Corrosion is a chemical process where metals react with substances in their environment, leading to deterioration. In the case of lead pipes, we need to identify the substances that can cause this reaction.

3. **Consider Common Corrosive Agents**: The question lists several substances: H2SO4 (sulfuric acid), HCl (hydrochloric acid), CH3COOH (acetic acid), and pure water. We need to determine which of these is most likely to corrode lead.

4. **Analyze Each Substance**:
- **H2SO4 (Sulfuric Acid)**: This is a strong acid that can corrode metals, including lead.
- **HCl (Hydrochloric Acid)**: Another strong acid that can also corrode lead.
- **CH3COOH (Acetic Acid)**: This is a weak organic acid, but it can still react with lead, especially in the presence of oxygen.
- **Pure Water**: Generally, pure water does not corrode lead significantly.

5. **Identify the Most Corrosive Agent**: Among the options, acetic acid (CH3COOH) is particularly noted for its ability to corrode lead pipes, especially when it forms lead acetate in the presence of oxygen.

6. **Explain the Reaction**: The corrosion process involves the reaction of lead with acetic acid, leading to the formation of lead acetate (Pb(CH3COO)2). This reaction is accelerated by the presence of oxygen, which facilitates the corrosion process.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, lead pipes are readily corroded by acetic acid (CH3COOH), especially when oxygen is present.

**Final Answer**: Lead pipes are readily corroded by acetic acid (CH3COOH).

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