Oxalic acid is a colorless and odorless organic compound that is found in many vegetables and fruits. It is used in various industrial processes such as cleaning and polishing metals. It can also be harmful if ingested in large quantities.
| IUPAC Name | Ethanedioic Acid |
| Molecular Formula | C2H2O4 |
| CAS Number | 144-62-7 |
| Synonyms | Ethanedioic acid, Acid of Sugar, Oxiric Acid, Wood Bleach, Sorrel Acid, C2dicarboxylic acid, etc. |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C2H2O4/c3-1(4)2(5)6/h(H,3,4)(H,5,6) |
Oxalic Acid Properties
Oxalic Acid formula
The chemical formula of oxalic acid is C2H2O4. It consists of two carbon atoms, two oxygen atoms, and four hydrogen atoms. The formula of oxalic acid is important in many chemical calculations, such as determining the molecular weight or the number of moles of oxalic acid in a sample. The formula also gives information about the ratio of atoms present in the molecule.
Oxalic Acid molar mass
The molar mass of ethanedioic acid is 90.03 g/mol. This is calculated by adding the atomic masses of each element present in the molecule (2 carbon atoms, 2 oxygen atoms, and 4 hydrogen atoms). The molar mass of ethanedioic acid is important in many chemical calculations, such as determining the amount of ethanedioic acid needed for a specific reaction or the concentration of an ethanedioic acid solution.
Oxalic Acid boiling point
The boiling point of ethanedioic acid is 365 °C. At this temperature, the liquid phase of ethanedioic acid converts to its vapor phase, and it becomes a gas. The boiling point of ethanedioic acid is influenced by various factors such as pressure, purity, and the presence of impurities. Oxalic acid is relatively stable at high temperatures, but prolonged exposure to heat may cause it to decompose and produce carbon dioxide and water.
Oxalic Acid melting point
The melting point of ethanedioic acid is 189-191 °C. This is the temperature at which solid ethanedioic acid begins to liquefy and become a liquid. The melting point of ethanedioic acid can be affected by various factors, such as purity, pressure, and crystalline structure. The melting point is an important physical property of ethanedioic acid, as it helps to determine its suitability for various applications.
Oxalic Acid density g/ml
The density of ethanedioic acid is 1.90 g/ml. This means that one milliliter of ethanedioic acid weighs 1.90 grams. The density of ethanedioic acid can vary depending on the temperature and pressure, and concentration of the solution. The density of ethanedioic acid is an important property that is used in many chemical and industrial processes, such as determining the amount of ethanedioic acid needed for a reaction or calculating the volume of a solution.
Oxalic Acid molecular weight
The molecular weight of ethanedioic acid is 90.03 g/mol. This is the sum of the atomic weights of all the atoms in the molecule. The molecular weight of ethanedioic acid is used in various chemical calculations, such as determining the number of moles of ethanedioic acid in a given sample, or the concentration of an ethanedioic acid solution.
Oxalic Acid Structure
Oxalic acid has a di-carboxylic acid structure, with two carboxyl groups (-COOH) attached to a central carbon atom. The molecule has a planar structure, with the two carboxyl groups oriented in a perpendicular manner. The structure of oxalic acid makes it a strong organic acid that can donate two protons in a solution.
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Specific Gravity | 1.90 g/mL at 20 °C |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | 90.03 g/mol |
| Density | 1.90 g/mL at 20 °C |
| Melting Point | 189-191 °C |
| Boiling Point | 365 °C |
| Flash Point | Not applicable |
| Water Solubility | 90 g/L at 20 °C |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, alcohol, ether, and glycerol |
| Vapour Pressure | 0.0001 mm Hg at 25°C |
| Vapour Density | 3.3 (air=1) |
| pKa | pKa1=1.25, pKa2=4.14 |
| pH | 1.2 (0.1 M solution) |
Oxalic Acid Safety and Hazards
Oxalic acid is a hazardous substance that can cause harm if it is not handled properly. It can be corrosive to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system, and can cause irritation or burns upon contact. Inhalation of ethanedioic acid dust or vapors can also cause respiratory irritation and damage to the lungs. When handling ethanedioic acid, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator. In addition, it should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat and ignition. The disposal of ethanedioic acid should be done in accordance with local regulations.
| Hazard Symbols | T, C |
| Safety Description | Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves and eye/face protection. In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice. In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately (show label where possible). |
| UN Ids | UN3261 |
| HS Code | 291711 |
| Hazard Class | 8 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Toxicity | Oral LD50: 750 mg/kg (rat), Dermal LD50: 1000 mg/kg (rabbit), Inhalation LC50: 1100 ppm/8h (rat) |
Oxalic Acid Synthesis Methods
There are several methods for synthesizing oxalic acid (ethanedioic acid), including the oxidation of carbohydrates, the oxidation of ethylene glycol, and the reaction of carbon monoxide with sodium hydroxide.
One of the most common methods involves the oxidation of carbohydrates using nitric acid. Hydrolyzing carbohydrates produces monosaccharides, which we then oxidize using nitric acid and a catalyst such as vanadium pentoxide. After treating the resulting mixture with calcium carbonate, we treat it with sulfuric acid to release ethanedioic acid.
Another method for synthesizing ethanedioic acid is the oxidation of ethylene glycol using nitric acid and a catalyst such as platinum or palladium. We oxidize ethylene glycol to glycolic acid, and then further oxidize it to ethanedioic acid using nitric acid and a catalyst. We then treat the resulting mixture with calcium carbonate and sulfuric acid to release ethanedioic acid.
A third method for synthesizing ethanedioic acid involves the reaction of carbon monoxide with sodium hydroxide in the presence of a catalyst such as nickel or cobalt. Reacting carbon monoxide with sodium hydroxide produces sodium formate, which we then further react with sodium hydroxide to produce sodium oxalate. Treating sodium oxalate with sulfuric acid releases ethanedioic acid.
Oxalic Acid Uses
Oxalic acid has many different uses in various industries due to its unique chemical properties. Here are some common uses of ethanedioic acid:
- Rust removal: Commonly used as a rust remover for metal surfaces, including iron, steel, and copper.
- Bleaching agent: Used in the textile industry to bleach fabrics and fibers.
- Woodworking: Used to remove stains from wood, such as water stains or stains caused by iron or other metals.
- Cleaning agent: Used as a cleaning agent for various surfaces, including bathroom and kitchen fixtures, countertops, and floors.
- Chelating agent: Also used as a chelating agent in various industrial processes, including the production of ceramics and pharmaceuticals.
- Etching agent: Used as an etching agent in the electronics industry to remove metal oxides and impurities from semiconductor surfaces.
- Photography: Used in photography as a developing agent for certain types of photographic film.
- Medical uses: Used in certain medical treatments, including the removal of calcium deposits from the body and the treatment of urinary tract infections.
Questions:
Q: Where can I buy oxalic acid near me?
A: Oxalic acid can be purchased at many hardware stores, home improvement stores, and online retailers. It may also be available at specialty chemical supply stores.
Q: How can I neutralize oxalic acid in food?
A: Oxalic acid can be neutralized in food by adding a calcium-rich substance, such as milk or cheese. The calcium will bind with oxalic acid, reducing its effect on the body.
Q: What is the mass percent of carbon in oxalic acid, H2C2O4?
A: The molecular weight of oxalic acid is 90.03 g/mol. The mass of carbon in one mole of ethanedioic acid is 24.02 g. Therefore, the mass percent of carbon in ethanedioic acid is (24.02 g / 90.03 g) x 100% = 26.66%.
Q: How can I reduce oxalic acid in spinach?
A: Oxalic acid can be reduced in spinach by blanching the spinach before consuming it. This process involves boiling the spinach for a short period of time and then cooling it in ice water to reduce the ethanedioic acid content.
Q: What is the mass percent of carbon in oxalic acid, H2C2O4?
A: The molecular weight of oxalic acid is 90.03 g/mol. The mass of carbon in one mole of ethanedioic acid is 24.02 g. Therefore, the mass percent of carbon in ethanedioic acid is (24.02 g / 90.03 g) x 100% = 26.66%.
Q: Is H2C2O4 an acid or base?
A: H2C2O4 is an acid, also known as ethanedioic acid.
Q: What is the order of reaction for H2C2O4? A: The order of reaction for H2C2O4 depends on the specific reaction in question. It can be determined experimentally through methods such as the method of initial rates or integrated rate laws.