Iodic acid facts for kids
Iodic acid is a chemical compound and also a type of acid. Its chemical formula is HIO3. It contains hydrogen and iodate ions. The iodine in iodic acid is in a special state called the +5 oxidation state.
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What is Iodic Acid Like?
Iodic acid is a white solid that can easily dissolve in water. When it dissolves, it creates an acidic solution. Unlike some similar acids, like chloric acid and bromic acid, iodic acid can exist as a solid. The others only stay together when they are dissolved in water.
Iodic acid is a strong oxidizing agent. This means it can take electrons from other substances, causing them to change.
When you heat iodic acid gently, it changes into another compound called iodine pentoxide. If you heat it very strongly, it breaks down into iodine, oxygen, and other iodine compounds.
Iodic acid can also change when it reacts with other chemicals in a process called reduction.
- If there's a lot of the chemical causing the reduction, iodic acid turns into iodide.
- If there's a lot of iodic acid itself, it turns into pure iodine.
- If there's a lot of chloride present, it changes into iodine trichloride, which is a yellow liquid.
How is Iodic Acid Made?
You can make iodic acid using a process called electrolysis. This involves passing electricity through an acidic solution that contains iodide.
What is Iodic Acid Used For?
Iodic acid is used to create other chemicals called iodates. This happens when iodic acid reacts with bases. It is also used as a strong acid in different chemical reactions.
Related Pages
See also
In Spanish: Ácido yódico para niños
