fórmico

Fórmico is a term that can refer to several related concepts, primarily concerning formic acid and its derivatives. Formic acid itself, with the chemical formula HCOOH, is the simplest carboxylic acid. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor and is naturally found in the venom of ants and the stingers of bees, hence its name, derived from the Latin word "formica" meaning ant. Formic acid is a weak acid but is a strong reducing agent.

In chemistry, the term "fórmico" can also be used as an adjective to describe compounds derived from or related to formic acid. For example, formate is the salt or ester of formic acid. Formates are common in various chemical reactions and industrial processes. In biological contexts, formic acid plays a role in metabolic pathways in some organisms, though it is generally considered a toxic substance for mammals at higher concentrations.

Historically, formic acid was first isolated by distillation of ants in the 17th century. Its production has since scaled up for industrial uses. Formic acid has applications in leather tanning, textile dyeing, rubber production, and as a preservative and antibacterial agent in livestock feed. The properties and applications of formic acid and its related compounds are well-documented in chemical literature.