Question

Write a short note on the structure of \[HCl{O_3}\].

Answer 1

Hint: \[HCl{O_3}\] also known as chloric acid is an oxoacid of chlorine and the former precursor of chlorate salts. It is also known as Chloric (V) Acid or Hydrogen Chloric Acid. It is a strong acid and oxidizing agent. It is a conjugate acid of a chlorate. It is self-reactive in nature. Chloric acid is a colourless liquid.

Complete answer:
Chloric acid is an oxoacid of chlorine. It consists of one chlorine atom, one hydrogen atom, and three oxygen atoms. Two oxygen atoms attached to the chlorine atom are double bonded and the third atom is attached with a single bond. The chemical or molecular formula of Chloric Acid is \[HCl{O_3}\]. Chloric acid is a colourless liquid. It is a strong oxidizing agent and a strong acid. When it comes in contact with combustible materials it enhances the burning to ignite most. It is widely used as a reagent in chemical analysis and in the making of various chemicals.
Chloric acid is stable in cold aqueous solution up to a concentration of approximately \[30\% \] and solution of up to \[40\% \] can be prepared by careful evaporation under reduced pressure. Above these concentrations, chloric acid solutions decompose to give a variety of products, for example:
\[8HCl{O_3} \to 4HCl{O_4} + 2{H_2}O + 2C{l_2} + 3{O_2}\]
\[3HCl{O_3} \to HCl{O_4} + {H_2}O + 2C{l_2}{O_2}\]

Note:
Chloric acid is a powerful oxidizing agent. Most organics and flammables will deflagrate on contact. Chloric acid is thermodynamically unstable with respect to disproportionation. It will accelerate the burning of combustible materials and can ignite most on contact. It is corrosive to metals and tissue. It is used as a reagent in chemical analysis and to make other chemicals. Fire caused due to may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.