Learn the chemical formula , structure, and properties of oxalic acid , a simple dicarboxylic acid . Find out how to calculate its n-factor, molar mass, equivalent weight, and formula mass. Oxalic acid (also known as ethanedioic acid ) is a chemical compound made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Its chemical formula can be written as H2C2O4 or (COOH)2. Oxalic acid is an organic acid with the chemical formula HO−C (=O)−C (=O)−OH or (COOH)2 or H2C2O4. It is the simplest dicarboxylic acid and a reducing agent. Learn more about its structure, synthesis, uses, hazards and occurrence. Oxalic acid is a reducing agent, and its conjugate base is oxalate. (C 2 O 4) 2- Oxalate functions as a chelating agent for metal cations. Typically, oxalic acid occurs in the form of a dihydrate with the formula H 2 C 2 O 4.2H 2 O. The ingestion of oxalic acid , whether by skin contact or orally, is lethal.
