Acids are classified as strong or weak based on their ability to dissociate in water.
Strong Acids: These acids completely dissociate into their ions in water, meaning they release all of their hydrogen ions (H⁺). This results in a high concentration of H⁺ ions, making them very effective at lowering pH.
Weak Acids: These acids only partially dissociate in water, resulting in fewer H⁺ ions. This means they have a less significant effect on pH compared to strong acids.
Strong Acids:
1. Hydrochloric acid (HCl)
2. Nitric acid (HNO₃)
3. Sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄)
Weak Acids:
1. Citric acid (C₆H₈O₇)
2. Acetic acid (CH₃COOH)
3. Formic acid (HCOOH)