What term is used to describe carbonic acid ($ ext{H}_2 ext{CO}_3$) in terms of its general strength when compared to acids like Citric Acid or Phosphoric Acid?
Answer
Weak Acid
The document explicitly classifies carbonic acid ($ ext{H}_2 ext{CO}_3$) as a weak acid. This designation contrasts sharply with the other acidifying agents commonly introduced into soft drinks, such as Phosphoric Acid ($ ext{H}_3 ext{PO}_4$) and Citric Acid ($ ext{C}_6 ext{H}_8 ext{O}_7$), both of which are described as having significantly stronger acidic properties. Although carbonic acid contributes to the overall low $ ext{pH}$ of a carbonated drink, its individual acidic contribution is mild. The concentration achieved through even high-pressure $ ext{CO}_2$ dissolution results in a milder acidity compared to directly adding finished, strong acid compounds.
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