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ritwik06
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Why is oxalic acid called ethane-dioic acid even if it has nothing else but 2 carboxylic group??:yuck:
Oxalic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in many plants and vegetables. It is a dicarboxylic acid, meaning it contains two carboxylic acid groups. Its chemical formula is C2H2O4. The name "ethane-dioic acid" comes from the fact that it is made up of two ethane molecules connected by a central oxygen atom.
Oxalic acid was named after the Latin word for sorrel, which is "oxalis." This is because the compound was first isolated from sorrel plants in the early 19th century.
Oxalic acid is a colorless, odorless solid at room temperature. It is highly soluble in water and has a sour taste. It is also a strong acid, meaning it readily donates hydrogen ions in solution. It can react with metals to form salts known as oxalates.
Oxalic acid has various industrial applications. It is commonly used as a bleaching agent for wood and also as a cleaning agent for metals, particularly in the production of steel. It is also used in the production of certain dyes and pharmaceuticals.
In small amounts, oxalic acid is generally safe for human consumption. However, consuming large amounts of oxalic acid can be toxic and can lead to kidney damage, as the body converts it into a harmful substance. It is important to avoid consuming large quantities of foods that are high in oxalic acid, such as rhubarb and spinach.