oxalic acid

A white, crystalline solid, a dibasic carboxylic acid that is slightly soluble in water. It is also known by the systematic name ethanedioic acid and has the chemical formula is (COOH)₂, or C₂H₂O₄.

Oxalic acid is very poisonous and occurs in certain plants such as sorrel and the leaf blades of rhubarb. It is a mild reducing agent and is used as a standard in volumetric analysis. It is also used for metal and textile cleaning, and in tanning. Molecular weight 90.0, relative density 1.653, melting point 101.5°C (214.7°F).

Oxalic acid poisoning

Oxalic acid is a powerful local irritant; when swallowed it produces a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, vomiting of blood, breathing difficulties, and circulatory collapse. Treatment is with calcium lactate or other calcium salts, lime water, or milk.

Related category

• ORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Also on this site:

Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History

BACK TO TOP