C4H4O6
C4H4O6, also known as oxalic acid, is a white crystalline organic compound with the chemical formula HOOCCOOH. It is a dicarboxylic acid, meaning it contains two carboxyl groups (-COOH). Oxalic acid is notable for its high solubility in water and its ability to form salts with various metals. It is commonly used in various industrial applications, including as a bleaching agent and a chelating agent in metalworking. Oxalic acid is also found in nature, particularly in plants, where it serves as a natural defense mechanism against herbivores. It is mildly toxic if ingested, and its salts, such as oxalates, are known for their low solubility in water. Oxalic acid is produced industrially through the oxidation of carbohydrates or by the fermentation of certain bacteria. Its chemical properties make it a versatile compound in both industrial and scientific contexts.