C2H3O4

C2H3O4 is a chemical formula that can represent several different chemical compounds. The most common compound with this formula is glyoxylic acid. Glyoxylic acid is an organic compound with the formula OHCCOOH. It is a dicarboxylic acid with one aldehyde group and one carboxylic acid group. It is a colorless liquid or solid and is soluble in water.

Glyoxylic acid is an important intermediate in biochemical pathways, such as the glyoxylate cycle. It is also used in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals, fragrances, and dyes. It can be produced industrially through the oxidation of glyoxal or the ozonolysis of maleic acid.

Another possible compound with the formula C2H3O4 is tartronic acid, also known as hydroxymalonic acid. Tartronic acid has the formula HOOCCH(OH)COOH. It is a dicarboxylic acid that contains a hydroxyl group. Tartronic acid is also found in biological systems and can be involved in metabolic processes. It can be synthesized by the oxidation of glycerol or the reduction of mesoxalic acid.