carbonica

Carbonica is a term used in several Romance languages to refer to carbon-related chemical species, most often carbon dioxide (CO2) or carbonic acid (H2CO3). In Italian, for example, anidride carbonica denotes carbon dioxide, while acido carbonico denotes carbonic acid; the adjective carbonico appears in various compound names.

Carbon dioxide is a colorless, non-flammable gas that occurs naturally in Earth's atmosphere. It is produced by respiration, the burning of carbon-containing fuels, and many industrial processes, and is released by volcanic activity and decomposition. In water, CO2 dissolves and forms carbonic acid in equilibrium with bicarbonate and carbonate species, a weak acid that contributes to the slight acidity of carbonated beverages.

As a greenhouse gas, atmospheric CO2 is a focal point of climate science due to its role in trapping heat and influencing global temperatures. Human activities, notably fossil fuel combustion and cement production, have raised atmospheric CO2 levels since the Industrial Revolution.

Carbon dioxide has a variety of applications. It is used to carbonate drinks, to preserve and process foods, in fire suppression systems, and as a shielding gas in welding. In solid form, dry ice (frozen CO2) is employed for cooling and theatrical effects.

Safety considerations are important because CO2 is denser than air and can accumulate in enclosed spaces, posing an asphyxiation risk at high concentrations. It is not toxic at low levels, but appropriate ventilation is essential in industrial or laboratory settings.

History: the gas was identified in the 18th century by Joseph Black, who described it as fixed air and carbonic acid gas, laying groundwork for the later naming of carbon dioxide and carbonic acid.

See also: Acido carbonico; Anidride carbonica; Greenhouse gas; Dry ice.