The Amazing Properties of Selenic Acid

Selenic acid (H₂SeO₄) is an incredibly interesting substance due to its corrosive properties and the ability to dissolve gold when heated. It is also highly soluble in water, making it a versatile chemical compound.

The anhydride of selenic acid, which is the nonmetallic oxide formed when water is removed from the acid, is selenium trioxide (SeO₃). This behavior is similar to sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), which forms sulfur trioxide (SO₃) as its anhydride.

Just like sulfuric acid, selenic acid can lose water molecules to form selenium trioxide. This unique property adds to the fascinating nature of selenic acid and its chemical reactivity.