Why does a bone which is treated with acid eventually becomes soft?!
Question:
Why does a bone which is treated with acid eventually becomes soft?
Answers:
Bone contains about 25% water, 25% collagen and 50% crystallized mineral salts, primarily calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate, in its extracellular matrix. When a bone is soaked in an acidic solution (vinegar, for example), the mineral salts are dissolved by the acid solution. When crystallized, these mineral salts give the bone its hardness; with these dissolved, the bone is rubbery and more flexible, properties of the collagen fibers.