Acids and Bases and Their Reactions

AI Thread Summary
Oxalic acid (H2C2O4) can donate two hydronium ions (H3O+) when dissolved in water. The first dissociation reaction is H2C2O4 + H2O -> H3O+ + HC2O4-, and the second is HC2O4- + H2O -> H3O+ + C2O4-2. The discussion highlights the behavior of oxalic acid as an acid in aqueous solutions and the formation of hydronium ions through these dissociation reactions. Additionally, there is a side inquiry about the sources of oxalic acid in plants. Understanding these reactions is crucial for grasping acid-base chemistry.
jbmiller
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Homework Statement



Oxalic acid, H2C2O4, which is found in certain pants, can provide two hydronium ions in water. Write balanced equations to show how oxalic acid can supply one and then a second H3O+ ion.

Homework Equations



There's not really an equation, and if there is please don't make me feel stupid.

The Attempt at a Solution



I don't really even know how to start.
 
Last edited:
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You must try something. Oxalic acid reacts with water, how? Water is an acid or a base, depending on what is present with it. Oxalic acid will behave as an acid. How does the H3O+1, hydronium ion form?
 
Do you know how to write dissociation equation for any acid?
 
I think I figured it out:

H2C2O4 + H2O -> H3O+ + HC2O4-

HC2O4- + H2O -> H3O+ + C2O4-2
 
Good.
 
In which pants do you find oxalic acid?
 
SteamKing said:
In which pants do you find oxalic acid?

Are you sure you asked what you wanted to ask?
 

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