Home
Back
Oxalic Acid Molecular Formula:
| From: | To: |
Oxalic acid is a dicarboxylic acid with the formula C₂H₂O₄. It occurs naturally in many plants and vegetables and is used in various industrial processes including cleaning, bleaching, and as a reagent in analytical chemistry.
The molar mass is calculated by summing the atomic masses of all atoms in the molecule:
Details: Oxalic acid is used as a bleaching agent, in rust removal, as a mordant in dyeing processes, and as a standard in analytical chemistry for standardizing potassium permanganate solutions.
Tips: Select whether you want to calculate the molar mass of anhydrous oxalic acid or the dihydrate form. The calculator will automatically compute the result based on standard atomic weights.
Q1: What is the difference between anhydrous and dihydrate oxalic acid?
A: Anhydrous oxalic acid contains no water molecules, while the dihydrate form (C₂H₂O₄·2H₂O) contains two water molecules per molecule of oxalic acid.
Q2: Why are there different forms of oxalic acid?
A: Oxalic acid can crystallize with or without water molecules depending on the crystallization conditions. The dihydrate form is more common commercially.
Q3: Is oxalic acid dangerous?
A: Yes, oxalic acid is toxic and corrosive. Proper safety precautions should be taken when handling it, including wearing protective equipment.
Q4: What are the common uses of oxalic acid?
A: It's used for cleaning, bleaching, rust removal, and as a reagent in analytical chemistry and various industrial processes.
Q5: How should oxalic acid be stored?
A: Oxalic acid should be stored in a cool, dry place in a tightly sealed container, away from moisture and incompatible materials.