A Dibasic Acid has two acidic hydrogen atoms in its molecules which can be ionised. Sulphuric acid is an important industrial chemical and it has many uses as a strong oxidising agent and a powerful dehydrating agent. It is a powerful protonating agent. It is also a powerful dehydrating agent and is used to remove a molecule of Water, HO2, from many organic compounds. The Dehydration Reactions of Alcohols results in their converted into an alkene, and involves the elimination of a molecule of water.
Dehydration requires the presence of an acid and the application of heat.
When a small amount of Sulphur, S, is kindled on a deflagrating spoon, it burns with a bright blue flame when introduced into a gas jar containing Oxygen, O2. A gas, Sulphur Dioxide, SO2, is the main product of the combustion. However, a little Sulphur Trioxide, SO3, is also formed, which makes the gas slightly cloudy. When shaken with water, the products of combustion dissolve, forming an acidic solution which turns litmus red. The sulphur trioxide is dissolved in sulphuric acid to form fuming sulphuric acid, this is called oleum.