What is the chemical formula for sulfuric acid?

The chemical formula for sulfuric acid is represented as H2SO4. This compound consists of two hydrogen atoms, one sulfur atom, and four oxygen atoms. The presence of the sulfur atom bonded with the oxygen atoms is characteristic of the acids derived from sulfur, highlighting its strong oxidation properties.

Sulfuric acid is a diprotic acid, meaning it can donate two protons (H+) in an aqueous solution, which accounts for the two hydrogen atoms in its formula. This property allows it to participate in various chemical reactions, including neutralization and dehydration reactions, because it readily dissociates in water.

The other options represent different substances entirely: HCl is hydrochloric acid, NaOH is sodium hydroxide, a strong base, and CH3COOH is acetic acid. Each of these compounds serves different roles in chemistry and does not correspond to sulfuric acid’s unique structure and properties. Understanding the distinct characteristics that define various compounds is essential for mastering chemistry concepts.