Final answer:
Acidic cleaning agents with specific ingredients such as strong mineral acids and chelants are used to remove tough mineral deposits and dirt. Special purpose cleaners are formulated for specific surfaces or appliances, and environmentally friendly options are available with the increasing demand for green products.
Step-by-step explanation:
Acidic cleaning agents are used on mineral deposits and other dirt that other cleaners cannot remove. These include special purpose cleaners which are specifically formulated with chemicals to effectively remove dirt, grime, or stain from a particular surface such as glass or metal, or to clean specific appliances like ovens. Common ingredients in these cleaners are strong mineral acids, chelants, surfactants, and sometimes corrosion inhibitors.
Moreover, some cleaners might contain phosphates or quaternary ammonium compounds for added cleaning strength. For the environment-conscious, green cleaners made of biodegradable and eco-friendly ingredients are becoming increasingly popular.
Household items like hydrochloric acid are often used for tougher cleaning tasks like concrete, while vinegar is a milder alternative that helps clean hard surfaces and remove calcium deposits. For particularly stubborn clogs in pipes, sulphuric acid based acidic drain cleaners are used to dissolve greases, proteins, and tissue.