What does hydrochloric acid do

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is commonly used for the neutralization of alkaline agents, as a bleaching agent, in food, textile, metal, and rubber industries. It is neutralized if released into the soil and it rapidly hydrolyzes when exposed to water. Skin exposure to low concentrations of hydrogen chloride gas or hydrochloric acid causes erythema and inflammation of the skin whereas high concentrations can cause severe chemical burns to the skin and mucous membranes.

In food, textile, metal, and rubber industries, hydrochloric acid is widely used to neutralize alkaline substances and as a bleaching agent. When released into the soil, it is neutralized, and when exposed to water, it quickly hydrolyzes.

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