Introduction:
Cleaning silver ornaments is a common practice to maintain their shine and luster. Over time, silver can tarnish and lose its brightness due to exposure to air, moisture, and other environmental factors. To restore the shine and remove tarnish from silver ornaments, acids are often used. One commonly used acid for cleaning silver is citric acid.

Citric Acid:
Citric acid, a weak organic acid found in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, is a safe and effective option for cleaning silver ornaments. It is readily available, inexpensive, and non-toxic, making it a popular choice for household cleaning purposes.

Working Mechanism:
When silver ornaments come into contact with air and moisture, a chemical reaction occurs, resulting in the formation of a thin layer of tarnish. Tarnish is a black or brownish coating that dulls the appearance of silver. Citric acid, being an acid, has the ability to dissolve tarnish and restore the shine of silver.

Acidic Nature:
Citric acid is an acid with a pH of around 2.2. Its acidic nature allows it to react with the tarnish on the silver surface, breaking it down and removing it. The acid reacts with the tarnish, converting it into a soluble compound that can be easily washed away.

Gentle Cleaning:
Citric acid is a relatively gentle acid, which means it is less likely to cause damage to the silver surface compared to stronger acids. It effectively removes tarnish without harming the underlying silver. This makes it a suitable choice for cleaning delicate silver ornaments.

Application:
To clean a silver ornament using citric acid, one can follow these steps:
1. Prepare a citric acid solution by dissolving citric acid crystals in warm water. The concentration of the solution may vary depending on the level of tarnish.
2. Place the silver ornament in the citric acid solution and let it soak for a few minutes.
3. Gently scrub the ornament using a soft brush or sponge to remove any remaining tarnish.
4. Rinse the ornament thoroughly with clean water to remove any traces of the citric acid solution.
5. Dry the ornament carefully using a soft cloth to prevent water spots or further tarnishing.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, citric acid is a commonly used acid for cleaning silver ornaments. Its acidic nature helps dissolve tarnish and restore the shine of silver. It is a safe and effective option that can be easily used at home. However, it is important to follow the instructions and take necessary precautions while using any acid for cleaning purposes to avoid any potential harm.

Sulfuric acid