Effect of HCl on Eyes
Another reason to wear goggles
is that even the weakest acidic solutions can damage the eye. Just because your
fingers feel no pain does not imply that your eyes will react in the same
manner. Think of shampoo’s contrasting effects on hands and eyes, and shampoo
is 100 000 times more “pH- balanced” than a seemingly weak 0.1 M solution of HCl.
|
pH |
[H+] |
Physiological effect |
|
4.5 |
0.000032 M |
Discomfort begins |
|
3.5 to 4.5 |
0.00032 to 0.000032 M |
Breaks in corneal epithelium; usually heals in 2-3 hours |
|
1 |
0.1 M |
Severe damage to lens and eyeball |
|
|
|
|
Source:
Mary O Amdur and al. Toxicology:
The Basic Science of Poisons. McGraw Hill. 1991