| Formula / Notation | CH2O2 |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 64-18-6 |
| Molecular Weight | 46.025 |
| Melting Point | 47.1 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 213.3 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 1.22 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink |
| Solubility | greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 70 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Formic acid appears as a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. Flash point 156 °F. Density 10.2 lb / gal. Corrosive to metals and tissue. |
| Also Known As | 64-18-6; Methanoic acid; Formylic acid; Aminic acid; Bilorin; Hydrogen carboxylic acid; Formisoton; Formira; Myrmicyl; Collo-bueglatt |
| Category | Acids |
What is Formic acid?
Formic acid is the simplest carboxylic acid, containing a single carbon. Occurs naturally in various sources including the venom of bee and ant stings, and is a useful organic synthetic reagent. Principally used as a preservative and antibacterial agent in livestock feed. Induces severe metabolic acidosis and ocular injury in human subjects. It has a role as a metabolite, an antibacterial agent, a solvent, a protic solvent and an astringent. It is a conjugate acid of a formate.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: formic acid
Other Names / Synonyms: 64-18-6; Methanoic acid; Formylic acid; Aminic acid; Bilorin; Hydrogen carboxylic acid; Formisoton; Formira; Myrmicyl; Collo-bueglatt
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 47.1 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 213.3 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 1.22 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink |
| Molecular Weight | 46.025 |
| Solubility | greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 70 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Formic acid appears as a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. Flash point 156 °F. Density 10.2 lb / gal. Corrosive to metals and tissue. |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Formic acid is the simplest carboxylic acid, containing a single carbon. Occurs naturally in various sources including the venom of bee and ant stings, and is a useful organic synthetic reagent. Principally used as a preservative and antibacterial agent in livestock feed. Induces severe metabolic acidosis and ocular injury in human subjects. It has a role as a metabolite, an antibacterial agent, a solvent, a protic solvent and an astringent. It is a conjugate acid of a formate.
Used in industrial chemical synthesis, fertilizer production, battery electrolytes, metal processing, and laboratory acid-base reactions.
Corrosive. Causes severe burns to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Wear appropriate PPE including gloves, goggles, and lab coat. Consult SDS before use.
The formula or notation for Formic acid is: CH2O2