In forensic toxicology, which acid is commonly associated with yellow discoloration of the stomach mucosa?

In forensic toxicology, the acid that is typically associated with yellow discoloration of the stomach mucosa is nitric acid. This discoloration occurs due to the corrosive nature of nitric acid, which can lead to the formation of yellow-colored compounds as it reacts with the tissues of the stomach lining. The damage caused by nitric acid is significant, and the unique staining is a distinct indicator when evaluating cases of poisoning.

Hydrochloric acid, while also corrosive, does not produce the same yellow discoloration. Acetic acid, primarily known as vinegar, usually causes less severe mucosal injury and doesn't lead to significant discoloration. Carbonic acid, which forms when carbon dioxide dissolves in water, is much weaker and unlikely to cause any impactful discoloration in the stomach mucosa. Thus, identifying nitric acid as the cause of the yellow discoloration is key in forensic evaluations of toxic exposure cases.