corrosive acid crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "corrosive acid crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find comprehensive answers, explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "corrosive acid crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
NITRIC: A strong mineral acid (HNO3) known for its highly corrosive properties, commonly used in fertilizers and explosives. Often appears in crosswords related to strong chemicals.
FORMIC: An organic acid (HCOOH) found in ant stings and bee venom, which can be corrosive, especially in concentrated forms. Less common than nitric for the 'corrosive acid' clue but a possibility.
7 Letters
VITRIOL: An archaic term for sulfuric acid (H2SO4), a highly corrosive mineral acid often called 'oil of vitriol'. It's a classic crossword answer for old-fashioned or chemical clues.
8 Letters
MURIATIC: The common, historical name for hydrochloric acid (HCl), a strong and highly corrosive acid. Frequently encountered in industrial and household contexts, and thus in crosswords.
More About "corrosive acid crossword clue"
The term "corrosive acid" in a crossword clue typically points towards strong mineral acids renowned for their ability to dissolve or damage organic tissue and materials. These are fundamental chemicals often encountered in chemistry, industry, and even historical contexts, making them prime candidates for crossword puzzles.
Common examples include nitric acid, sulfuric acid, and hydrochloric acid. Crossword setters love these terms not only for their chemical properties but also for their specific names or historical aliases (like "vitriol" for sulfuric acid or "muriatic" for hydrochloric acid), which can add an extra layer of challenge or hint.
When you see "corrosive acid," consider the number of letters required and think of these powerful chemical agents. The clue often tests your general knowledge of chemistry alongside your vocabulary.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always start by counting the available spaces. For "corrosive acid," answers like NITRIC (6), FORMIC (6), VITRIOL (7), and MURIATIC (8) are common.
- Consider Synonyms & Old Names: Crosswords often use archaic terms or common nicknames. For acids, "vitriol" is a prime example for sulfuric acid.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve a difficult clue in isolation. Use the letters from solved intersecting words to narrow down possibilities for "corrosive acid."
- Think Chemistry Basics: Many crossword puzzles draw on fundamental scientific knowledge. Knowing common strong acids can often give you a direct answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common corrosive acid found in crosswords?
While many acids are corrosive, 'NITRIC' and 'SULFURIC' (or 'VITRIOL') are frequently encountered answers for clues related to strong, corrosive acids due to their distinct names and historical significance.
How can I identify 'corrosive acid' answers in a crossword?
Look at the letter count first. Common answers include 'NITRIC' (6 letters), 'VITRIOL' (7 letters), or 'MURIATIC' (8 letters). Contextual clues from surrounding words can also help narrow down the possibilities.
Are all acids corrosive?
Not all acids are equally corrosive. While all acids have the potential to react with other substances, the term 'corrosive acid' usually refers to strong mineral acids like sulfuric, nitric, or hydrochloric acid, which can cause significant damage to living tissue or materials.