Ethanedioic meaning

Ethanedioic, also known as oxalic acid, is a chemical compound found in some vegetables that can be toxic in large amounts.


Ethanedioic definitions

Word backwards cioidenahte
Part of speech Adjective
Syllabic division e-thane-di-o-ic
Plural The plural of "ethanedioic" is "ethanedioic acids."
Total letters 11
Vogais (4) e,a,i,o
Consonants (5) t,h,n,d,c

Commonly known as ethanedioic, oxalic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in many plants like spinach, rhubarb, and beets. It is a dicarboxylic acid with the chemical formula C2H2O4. The acid is widely used in various industrial processes, including textile, metal cleaning, and pharmaceuticals.

Properties of Ethanedioic:

Oxalic acid is a white crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. It is a strong acid with a pKa value of 1.25 and can easily donate hydrogen ions. This acid is considered toxic and corrosive in high concentrations, so handling should be done with care. Despite its toxic nature, oxalic acid is widely used in various applications due to its unique properties.

Uses of Ethanedioic:

One of the most common uses of ethanedioic is in rust removal. Its acidic nature makes it an excellent cleaner for metal surfaces, effectively removing rust without causing damage to the underlying metal. It is also used as a bleaching agent in the textile industry and as a mordant in dyeing processes. In the pharmaceutical industry, oxalic acid is used in the synthesis of various drugs.

Health Effects of Ethanedioic:

While oxalic acid is present in many plants and vegetables we consume, consuming it in large quantities can be harmful. It can interfere with the absorption of minerals like calcium, leading to the formation of kidney stones. Ingesting high concentrations of oxalic acid can cause poisoning, resulting in symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Overall, ethanedioic or oxalic acid is a versatile compound with various industrial applications. While it should be handled with care due to its toxic nature, its unique properties make it an essential ingredient in many processes across different industries.


Ethanedioic Examples

  1. Ethanedioic acid is commonly known as oxalic acid.
  2. The production of ethanedioic acid is an important step in the chemical industry.
  3. Ethanedioic acid can be used as a bleaching agent for textiles.
  4. Some metal oxalates are formed when ethanedioic acid reacts with metal ions.
  5. Ethanedioic acid is also found in some plants as a natural compound.
  6. In the laboratory, ethanedioic acid is commonly used as a reducing agent.
  7. Exposure to ethanedioic acid can be harmful if not handled properly.
  8. The molecular formula of ethanedioic acid is C2H2O4.
  9. One of the derivatives of ethanedioic acid is potassium hydrogen oxalate.
  10. Ethanedioic acid has a sour taste and is used in some food and beverage products.


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  • Updated 12/07/2024 - 15:58:19