perchloric acid

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a colorless, syrupy hygroscopic liquid, HClO 4 , an acid of chlorine containing one more oxygen atom than chloric acid: used chiefly as a reagent in analytical chemistry.

perchloric acid

/ pəˈklɔːrɪk /

noun

1. a colourless syrupy oxyacid of chlorine containing a greater proportion of oxygen than chloric acid. It is a powerful oxidizing agent and is used as a laboratory reagent. Formula: HClO 4 Systematic namechloric(VII) acid

perchloric acid

/ pər-klôr′ĭk /

1. A clear, colorless liquid that is very corrosive and, under some conditions, extremely explosive. It is a powerful oxidant and is used as a catalyst and in explosives. Chemical formula: HClO 4 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of perchloric acid¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

Further concentration leads to decomposition, with evolution of oxygen and formation of perchloric acid.

From Project Gutenberg

Perchloric acid is best prepared by distilling potassium perchlorate with concentrated sulphuric acid.

From Project Gutenberg

The alkaloid gives a fine magenta colour with perchloric acid.

From Project Gutenberg