Why is sulphuric acid known as king of chemicals and oil of vitriol?

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Detailed Solution

Sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄) is called the “king of chemicals” because it is one of the most widely used industrial chemicals, and “oil of vitriol” because of its oily appearance and historical origin.

Reasons for the Title “King of Chemicals”

Used in the manufacture of fertilizers, paints, detergents, and explosives.
Essential in petroleum refining and battery production.
Used in laboratory analysis and metal purification.

Why “Oil of Vitriol”?

Discovered by alchemists through the distillation of green vitriol (iron sulphate).
It appears thick and oily, hence the term “oil of vitriol.”

Property	Details
Chemical Formula	H₂SO₄
Nature	Strong acid, highly corrosive
Use Indicator	Used in chemical industries to indicate development level

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