boronihappoja

Boronihappoja, commonly known as boric acid, is a weak Lewis acid and a monobasic acid of boron. Its chemical formula is H3BO3. It is typically found as a white crystalline solid that dissolves in water. Boric acid has a variety of applications due to its antiseptic, antifungal, and insecticidal properties.

Historically, boric acid has been used as a mild antiseptic for minor cuts and burns. It can also be found in some eye washes and lotions. In agriculture, it is used as a fertilizer to provide essential boron to plants, which is a micronutrient crucial for cell wall development and other metabolic processes. However, excessive amounts can be toxic to plants.

The insecticidal properties of boric acid are exploited in pest control. It acts as a stomach poison for insects, disrupting their digestive systems. It is often formulated into baits for cockroaches, ants, and silverfish. Due to its low mammalian toxicity, it is generally considered safer than many other insecticides, though ingestion should still be avoided.

Boric acid also has industrial uses. It is a component in some flame retardants, glass manufacturing, and ceramics. In laboratories, it is used as a buffer solution and a source of boron for chemical reactions. While generally safe for external use and in controlled applications, boric acid can be harmful if ingested in large quantities and can cause irritation upon contact with skin and eyes.