In class we did pH and indicators but I still mix up strong vs weak acids. Is HCl strong because it is more dangerous? I need clear examples.
Strong and weak refer to how completely an acid ionises in water, not how dangerous it is. A strong acid ionises almost fully, releasing nearly all its H+ ions. Examples are hydrochloric acid (HCl), sulphuric acid (H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3). A weak acid ionises only partly, so most of it stays as whole molecules and releases fewer H+ ions. Examples are acetic acid (in vinegar) and carbonic acid (in soda water). For the same concentration, a strong acid has a lower pH because of more H+ ions. So concentration is about how much acid is dissolved, while strength is about how much of it actually splits into ions. A dilute strong acid can be milder than a concentrated weak one.
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