Question

Which of the following acid is also known as spirit of salts?

• A. Sulphuric acid
• B. Nitric acid
• C. Hydrochloric acid
• D. Oxalic acid

Hint:

Link the old name to the source: \textbf{Spirit of Salt} comes from reacting an acid with \textbf{salt} (\(NaCl\)) to produce \textbf{Hydrochloric Acid}.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understand the term. "Spirit of salt" is an archaic name for a chemical compound, originating from its early method of production.

Step 2: Identify the acid. Historically, hydrochloric acid (\(HCl\)) was produced by reacting common salt (sodium chloride, \(NaCl\)) with sulfuric acid. Because it was a volatile "spirit" derived from salt, it was named spirit of salt.

Step 3: Conclude. Hydrochloric acid is the modern name for the substance known as spirit of salt.