Hydrochloric acid: Environmental effects
Description
Hydrochloric acid has a high acute toxic effect on all forms of life. There is no information on long term effects. It will also accelerate the dissolution of many minerals, such as the carbonates (including limestone) and all aluminosilicates (such as clays and many igneous rocks). It thus contributes to the decay of limestone buildings, other structures such as bridges, and art works. It also contributes to the processes that cause photochemical smog.
Entering the environment
Hydrogen chloride is carried in the air. If released to soil, it will usually quickly react with alkaline and other buffering components, if present. It can be mobile in soil, however, and may contaminate groundwater.
Where it ends up
Hydrogen chloride released into the atmosphere as a gas will undergo wet and dry deposition, and will be readily incorporated into cloud, rain, and fog water. It thus forms a component of acid rain. It also contributes to the processes that cause photochemical smog.
Environmental guidelines
No national guidelines.
Key
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