Final answer:
Acidic cleaning agents are commonly used to dissolve inorganic deposits in canal cleaning, containing strong mineral acids, chelants, and sometimes surfactants and corrosion inhibitors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The material frequently used for dissolving inorganic deposits during the cleaning of canals is an acidic cleaning agent. These agents often contain strong mineral acids and chelants which are effective in removing scaling and other mineral deposits. Chelants bind to metal ions and enhance their solubility in water, which prevents the deposits from adhering to surfaces. In addition to acids, these cleaning agents can include surfactants for better coverage and penetration of the deposits, as well as corrosion inhibitors to protect the canal surfaces from damage.
Specific substances used in acidic cleaning agents for canals may include hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, and sometimes formic acid. These acids react with inorganic materials such as calcium carbonate commonly found in hard water deposits and convert them into soluble salts. This chemical conversion allows the deposits to be rinsed away with water, effectively cleaning the canals.