An "acid bath" refers to a process where materials, often metals, are submerged in a solution of strong acids. This method is commonly used in industries for cleaning, etching, or removing unwanted layers from surfaces. The acid reacts with the material, effectively dissolving impurities or coatings, which can enhance the quality and appearance of the final product. In some contexts, the term "acid bath" can also refer to a method used in forensic science to destroy evidence. This involves using corrosive substances to eliminate biological materials, making it difficult to recover any trace of the original sample. Such practices raise ethical and legal concerns in criminal investigations.