Which acid is commonly used in the manufacture of fertilizers and detergents, and also serves as a flavoring agent in beverages?

• A. Sulfuric acid (H2SO4)
• B. Phosphoric acid (H3PO4)
• C. Nitric acid (HNO3)
• D. Hydrochloric acid (HCl)

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the acids listed: sulfuric acid (H\_2SO\_4), phosphoric acid (H\_3PO\_4), nitric acid (HNO\_3), and hydrochloric acid (HCl).
2. Recall the common industrial uses of each acid: sulfuric acid is widely used in fertilizer production, nitric acid is used in explosives and fertilizers, hydrochloric acid is used in cleaning and pH control, and phosphoric acid is used in fertilizers, detergents, and as a flavoring agent.
3. Focus on the acid that is specifically known for being used in fertilizers and detergents and also as a flavoring agent in beverages, which is phosphoric acid (H\_3PO\_4).
4. Understand that phosphoric acid's role as a flavoring agent is common in soft drinks, giving them a tangy taste, while its industrial use includes manufacturing fertilizers and detergents.
5. Conclude that phosphoric acid (H\_3PO\_4) is the acid that fits all parts of the question: fertilizer and detergent manufacture, and flavoring in beverages.