1. Hydrolysis: Acidic solutions are often employed in hydrolysis reactions, where water breaks down complex molecules like esters and polysaccharides. 2. Alkylation: Acidic conditions facilitate the transfer of alkyl groups to organic molecules, essential in producing fuels and lubricants. 3. Dehydration: Acidic catalysts can remove water molecules from organic compounds, crucial in synthesizing alkenes from alcohols.