Which type of acids are considered water-soluble and must be neutralized before disposal?

• A. Organic acids such as citric acid
• B. Hydrohalic acids such as HF and HBr
• C. Mineral acids such as HCl and H2SO4
• D. Carboxylic acids such as CH3COOH

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the question asks which acids are water-soluble and require neutralization before disposal, focusing on common types of acids encountered in chemistry.
2. Recall that mineral acids, such as hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4), are strong acids that are highly soluble in water and can be hazardous to the environment if disposed of improperly.
3. Recognize that organic acids like citric acid and carboxylic acids such as acetic acid (CH3COOH) are generally weaker acids and often biodegradable, so they do not always require neutralization before disposal.
4. Note that hydrohalic acids like HF and HBr are also strong acids, but the question specifically highlights mineral acids, which are a common category including HCl and H2SO4, known for their need to be neutralized due to their corrosive nature.
5. Conclude that mineral acids are the correct answer because their strong acidity and environmental impact necessitate neutralization before disposal to prevent harm.