Physical Properties of Oxalic Acid
Chemists clasify oxalic acid, molecular formula C(2)H(2)O(4), as a useful compound and a weak acid due to its relatively low rate of ionization in water. According to the International Programme on Chemical Safety, oxalic acid has a molecular mass of 90 grams per mole, melts at 189.5 degrees Celsius and is soluble in water. The United States Environmental Protection Agency points out that oxalic acid is useful as a pesticide but is a dangerous substance if inhaled or swallowed. Despite this danger, the substance has seen use as a pesticide and a cleaning agent.
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Oxalic Acid Chemical Structure
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Two carbon atoms, two hydrogen atoms and four oxygen atoms make up oxalic acid. Its chemical formula is thus C(2)H(2)O(4), but its molecular formula is generally written as (COOH)(2), which is more indicative of its physical structure as a molecule. This written arrangement means that oxalic acid is composed of two carbon atoms bonded together in the center of the molecule, with two oxygen atoms bonded to each of these carbon atoms and a terminal hydrogen atom bonded to one of the oxygens. This structure means that oxalic acid exhibits hydrogen bonding between molecules, which results in its solubility in water.
Acidic Properties of Oxalic Acid
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Oxalic acid is a proton donor when in an aqueous solution, which makes it an acid. However, the percent of oxalic acid molecules that actually donate a proton -- in the form of a hydrogen atom minus its electron -- is low, which causes it to be characterized as a weak acid. Georgia State University indicates that Rhubarb's tart taste comes from a relatively high concentration of oxalic acid and this results in Rhubarb being toxic if ingested in large quantities.
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Physical Behavior of Oxalic Acid
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As it exhibits hydrogen bonding with surrounding molecules, oxalic acid is both soluble in water as well as fairly stable. It is found in solid form at standard temperature and pressure and melts at just below 190 C. It appears as a white powder with a density of 1.9 grams per cubic centimeter. Although it is a weak acid, oxalic acid is a dangerous substance in large quantities. It can damage some plastics and if inhaled or ingested can result in a burning sensation in the throat. It is also highly dangerous if it comes into contact with the eyes, and so if it's spilled or catches on fire, it is vital to get as far away from it as possible.
Physical Uses of Oxalic Acid
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Although it is a highly toxic substance if ingested or if it comes into contact with sensitive tissues, oxalic acid is a useful substance with a number of industrial and commercial applications. The EPA indicates that it was used in the 1950s as a pesticide, and has recently come into use as a cleansing agent. It has even been used as an effective flushing substance when used in automotive cooling systems.
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References
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okay ~_~
