Formic acid

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Formic acid (systematically called methanoic acid) is the simplest carboxylic acid. Its formula is CH2O2 or HCOOH. Its structure is shown at right.

Related Topics:
Carboxylic acid - C - H₂ - O₂

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In nature, it is found in the stings and bites of many insects of the order Hymenoptera, including bees and ants. It is also the principal irritant in the leaves of the stinging nettle. It is also a significant combustion product resulting from alternative fueled vehicles burning methanol (and ethanol, if contaminated with water) when mixed with gasoline. Its name comes from the Latin word for ant, formica, referring to its early isolation by the distillation of ant bodies. A chemical compound such as a salt from the neutralization of formic acid with a base, or an ester derived from formic acid, is referred to as formate (or methanoate). The formate ion has the formula HCOO-.

Related Topics:
Hymenoptera - Bee - Ant - Stinging nettle - Latin - Distillation - Chemical compound - Salt - Neutralization - Base - Ester - Ion

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