H2OsO4
H2OsO4, commonly known as orthosilicic acid, is a chemical compound with the formula H4SiO4. It is the simplest form of silicic acid, a group of compounds derived from silicic acid. Orthosilicic acid is a colorless, odorless, and highly soluble substance in water. It is a weak acid and its dissociation in water produces silicate ions. The concentration of orthosilicic acid in natural waters, such as oceans, rivers, and groundwater, is an important factor in aquatic ecosystems, as it is the primary form in which silicon is available for uptake by diatoms and other silica-utilizing organisms.
In geological contexts, orthosilicic acid is a product of the weathering of silicate minerals. Over time, these