nakatago wrote:Actually, for scale, it works by neutralizing the resulting alkali solution from the mineral deposits in hard water (and detergent residue), usually calcium compounds.
The corrosion works on everything else.
The Chemistry definition of corrosion is a process in which a solid is eaten away, that is, changed by a chemical reaction.
Limescale is an insoluble solid, mainly calcium carbonate.
It is no longer in solution when it has precipitated out as scale.
However, an acid will break this up into soluble calcium ions, CO
2 and water (H
2O), effectively dissolving it away.
"Corrosive" substances, like acids, are just highly reactive.
Vinegar, a dilute weak acid, is just easier to handle and control.
Lime juice and lemon juice (i.e. citric acid, as mentioned earlier) would work just as well for hotpots and kettles, when followed by thorough rinsing.