Common Inorganic Compounds to Know for Inorganic Chemistry I

Inorganic compounds play a vital role in both nature and industry. From water's unique properties to the essential functions of acids and bases, these compounds are crucial for biochemical processes, environmental balance, and various applications in everyday life.

1. Water (H2O)

   • Essential solvent for biochemical reactions and processes.
   • Exhibits unique properties such as high specific heat and surface tension.
   • Participates in hydration and hydrolysis reactions.

2. Sodium chloride (NaCl)

   • Common table salt, crucial for maintaining osmotic balance in biological systems.
   • Dissolves in water to form sodium (Na⁺) and chloride (Cl⁻) ions.
   • Used in various industrial applications, including food preservation.

3. Ammonia (NH3)

   • A colorless gas with a pungent odor, used in fertilizers and cleaning products.
   • Acts as a weak base, accepting protons in aqueous solutions.
   • Important in the nitrogen cycle, contributing to soil fertility.

4. Hydrochloric acid (HCl)

   • Strong acid commonly found in gastric juice, aiding digestion.
   • Used in various industrial processes, including metal cleaning and pH regulation.
   • Reacts with bases to form salts and water in neutralization reactions.

5. Sulfuric acid (H2SO4)

   • Strong acid and dehydrating agent, widely used in batteries and chemical manufacturing.
   • Highly corrosive and can cause severe burns upon contact.
   • Plays a key role in the production of fertilizers and explosives.

6. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH)

   • Strong base, also known as lye or caustic soda, used in soap making and cleaning agents.
   • Reacts vigorously with acids to form salts and water.
   • Important in various industrial processes, including paper and textile manufacturing.

7. Carbon dioxide (CO2)

   • Colorless gas produced by respiration and combustion, essential for photosynthesis.
   • Contributes to the greenhouse effect and climate change.
   • Used in carbonated beverages and as a refrigerant.

8. Nitric acid (HNO3)

   • Strong acid used in the production of fertilizers, explosives, and dyes.
   • Highly corrosive and can cause severe burns.
   • Acts as a strong oxidizing agent in various chemical reactions.

9. Calcium carbonate (CaCO3)

   • Commonly found in rocks, shells, and as a dietary supplement.
   • Used in the production of lime, cement, and as an antacid.
   • Reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas.

10. Potassium chloride (KCl)

    • Used as a salt substitute and in fertilizers to provide potassium.
    • Dissolves in water to release potassium (K⁺) ions.
    • Important for maintaining proper nerve and muscle function.

11. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)

    • A strong oxidizing agent used as a disinfectant and bleaching agent.
    • Decomposes into water and oxygen, releasing free radicals.
    • Used in various applications, including wound care and hair bleaching.

12. Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3)

    • Also known as baking soda, used in cooking and as an antacid.
    • Reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas, causing leavening in baking.
    • Acts as a mild base, helping to neutralize stomach acid.

13. Copper sulfate (CuSO4)

    • Blue crystalline solid used as a fungicide and herbicide.
    • Important in agriculture and as a laboratory reagent.
    • Reacts with water to form a hydrated compound, commonly known as blue vitriol.

14. Iron(III) chloride (FeCl3)

    • Used in water treatment and as a catalyst in organic reactions.
    • Reacts with water to form a yellow-brown solution.
    • Important in the production of pigments and as a coagulant.

15. Potassium permanganate (KMnO4)

    • Strong oxidizing agent used in water treatment and as a disinfectant.
    • Appears as dark purple crystals and dissolves to give a pink solution.
    • Used in organic synthesis and as a reagent in redox reactions.