how can we differentiate a mineral acid and base from organic ones
mineral acid: an acid that does not have carbon in it.
Mineral base: a base that does not have carbon in it. Common alkaline bases (Ca(OH)2, NaOH) are all mineral bases. CH3OH is not.
Organic acids contain carbon, which is detectable with a mass spectrometer.
To differentiate between mineral acids and bases and organic acids and bases, there are several factors we can consider. Here is how you can do it:
1. Composition: Mineral acids and bases are typically composed of inorganic elements, while organic acids and bases are composed of carbon and hydrogen elements. This difference in composition plays a crucial role in distinguishing between the two.
2. Source: Mineral acids and bases are commonly derived from minerals or inorganic compounds, while organic acids and bases are usually derived from living organisms or organic compounds.
3. Chemical Properties: Mineral acids tend to be strong and highly corrosive, while organic acids are typically weaker and less corrosive. Mineral bases are usually strong and highly alkaline, while organic bases tend to be weaker and have a milder alkalinity.
4. pH Level: Mineral acids and bases generally have very low or high pH values, indicating strong acidity or alkalinity. Organic acids and bases usually have pH values closer to neutral or slightly acidic/alkaline, depending on their strength.
5. Behavior with Water: Mineral acids and bases readily dissociate in water, releasing hydrogen or hydroxide ions. Organic acids and bases may dissolve in water but generally do not fully dissociate or ionize to the same extent as mineral counterparts.
6. Naming Conventions: Mineral acids are often named using words such as sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, etc., indicating their inorganic nature. Organic acids are typically named using words such as acetic acid, citric acid, formic acid, etc. Organic bases may be referred to as amines.
By considering these factors, you can differentiate between mineral acids and bases and organic acids and bases. However, keep in mind that this is a general guideline, and there might be some exceptions or complex cases that require more specific analysis.