Expert: Leo Carr - 4/4/2006

Question
Ginger ale and sulfuric acid are both acids, so I was wondering why it is dangerous to drink sulfuric acid, but not ginger ale. Can you explain it to me?

Answer
It's a good basic chemistry question.  I would not classify ginger ale as an acid, but it does contain some. Acids are classified in several different ways based on their strength.  Ginger ale contains phosporic acid which is classed as a weak acid. It's formula is H3PO4.  The manufacturers add it in a very low concentration to soda. Also at work in the soda is CO2.  This gives it the "fizz". Also, when combined with water it forms carbonic acid. Also, a weak acid.  

Sulfuric acid on the other hand, is an oxyacid. Its formula is H2SO4.  It is considered a strong acid.  Acid strength is based upon something called pKa.  Somewhat related to pH.  The lower the number the more acidic something is.  Sulfuric acid has a lower pH and pKa then phosphoric acid and carbonic acid.