We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. Promise. I can't believe I'm saying this as a beauty editor with 5+ years of experience but...I'm new to sulfate ...

Unlike the other tests described on this page, the test for carbonate ions works whatever acid is added. Explain why, in a test for sulfate ions, the sample is acidified with hydrochloric acid first.

Sulfate is a salt that forms when sulfuric acid reacts with another chemical. It’s a broader term for other synthetic sulfate-based chemicals you may be concerned about, such as sodium lauryl sulfate ...