Acid Attacks
Essential Question: How can we apply a scientific understanding of acids and their physiological effects to addressing the systemic violence against women through the use of acid attacks?
Standards:
PS1A: Chemical Reactions
LS1A: Structure and Function
Photo: Niraj Gera
Acid attacks are a form of violence that disproportionately affects women. It “reflects and perpetuates discrimination of women and girls in society.” (Acid Survivors Trust International) While cases vary greatly, acid attacks are meant to permanently disfigure the victim, often motivated by revenge for sexual or romantic rejection or perceived immodesty and impropriety. In 2008, Taliban militants infamously doused 15 girls and and teachers in the Kandahar Province of Afghanistan for straying from conservative gender-norms. While acid attacks are forbidden by international law, strict local laws and regulation of acid sales has been shown to reduce the prevalence of attacks, most notably in Bangladesh.
Chemistry students can learn about the various types and strengths of acids used in chemical attacks, perhaps as a way to consider needed regulations. They can also seek to understand the body’s natural buffer capacity and implications when the maximum buffer capacity is exceeded. To incorporate a life science perspective, model the ways acids and bases denature proteins and the additional damage that bases can inflict on fatty tissues. With a cultural and scientific understanding of acid attacks, students can advocate for survivors and preventative measures.
