Sulphuric acid is considered as the king of chemicals. The prosperity of any country is measured by the amount of sulphuric acid it consumes. Sulphuric acid is, thus, a substance of very great commercial importance as it used practically ine every important industry. This is due to the following properties of sulphuric acid :
(a) acidic nature
(b) oxidising nature
(c) dehydrating nature
(d) sulphonation.
Sulphuric acid has very corresive action on skin because

Options

A. It reacts with proteins
B. It acts as an oxidising agent
C. It acts as a dehydrating agent
D. It acts as a dehydrating agent and absorption of water is highly exothermic.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Properties of Sulphuric Acid:**
- Sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄) is known for its various properties, including being acidic, oxidizing, dehydrating, and its ability to sulphonate organic compounds. Each of these properties contributes to its wide range of applications in industries.

2. **Identifying the Corrosive Nature:**
- The question specifically asks why sulphuric acid has a corrosive action on the skin. To answer this, we need to focus on its chemical properties that lead to this effect.

3. **Dehydrating Nature:**
- One of the key properties of sulphuric acid is its dehydrating nature. This means that it has the ability to remove water from other substances. When it comes into contact with skin, it can absorb moisture from the skin cells.

4. **Exothermic Reaction:**
- The process of dehydration is exothermic, meaning it releases heat. When sulphuric acid absorbs moisture from the skin, it generates a significant amount of heat due to this exothermic reaction.

5. **Resulting Effect on Skin:**
- The heat generated during the dehydration process can cause severe damage to skin tissues, leading to burns and irritation. This is why sulphuric acid is considered highly corrosive and dangerous when it comes into contact with skin.

6. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the corrosive action of sulphuric acid on skin can be attributed to its dehydrating nature and the heat released during the absorption of moisture.

**Final Answer:**
Sulphuric acid has a very corrosive action on skin because it acts as a dehydrating agent, absorbing moisture and releasing heat in an exothermic reaction, which can cause burns and tissue damage.

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