Molecular Weight Of Oxalic Acid

Molecular Formula of Oxalic Acid

Before diving into its molecular weight, let’s first look at the molecular formula of h2c2o4, which is C₂H₂O₄. This formula tells us that one molecule of oxalic acid consists of two carbon atoms (C), two hydrogen atoms (H), and four oxygen atoms (O).

Atomic Weights of Elements

To calculate the molecular weight of oxalic acid, we need to know the atomic weights of the constituent elements. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the atomic weights of these elements are as follows:

Carbon (C): Approximately 12.011 atomic mass units (amu)
Hydrogen (H): Approximately 1.008 amu
Oxygen (O): Approximately 15.999 amu

Calculation of Molecular Weight

Now, let’s calculate the molecular weight of h2c2o4 by summing the atomic weights of its constituent atoms:

Carbon (C): 2 atoms × 12.011 amu = 24.022 amu
Hydrogen (H): 2 atoms × 1.008 amu = 2.016 amu
Oxygen (O): 4 atoms × 15.999 amu = 63.996 amu

Now, add these values together:

Molecular weight of oxalic acid = 24.022 amu + 2.016 amu + 63.996 amu ≈ 90.034 amu

So, the molecular weight of h2c2o4 is approximately 90.034 atomic mass units (amu) or 90.034 grams per mole (g/mol).

Significance of Molecular Weight

Understanding the molecular weight of a compound is vital for various scientific applications. Here are a few reasons why it’s important:

Stoichiometry: Molecular weight is crucial for stoichiometric calculations in chemistry. It helps determine the number of moles of a substance in a given mass.
Chemical Reactions: Molecular weight is used to balance chemical equations and predict the outcomes of chemical reactions.
Analytical Chemistry: In analytical chemistry, molecular weight plays a role in techniques like mass spectrometry, where it helps identify and quantify substances.
Pharmacology: In the pharmaceutical industry, molecular weight is essential for drug formulation and dosage calculations.
Environmental Sciences: Molecular weight is used to understand the behavior of compounds in the environment, including their transport, transformation, and toxicity.

Conclusion

The molecular weight of oxalic acid, a simple organic compound with the chemical formula C₂H₂O₄, is approximately 90.034 grams per mole (g/mol).

This value is essential for a wide range of applications in chemistry, biology, and environmental sciences, making it a fundamental parameter in scientific research and industry. Please note that atomic weights are subject to periodic updates, so it’s essential to consult the most recent values for precise calculations.

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Frequently Asked Question (FAQs) Molecular Weight Of Oxalic Acid

What is oxalic acid?

h2c2o4 is a simple organic compound with the chemical formula C₂H₂O₄. It is a dicarboxylic acid and occurs naturally in various plants, including spinach and rhubarb. It is also used in various industrial applications.

Why is the molecular weight of oxalic acid important?

The molecular weight of a compound is essential in chemistry for stoichiometric calculations, chemical reactions, and various analytical techniques. It provides crucial information about the mass of one mole of the substance.

How is the molecular weight of oxalic acid calculated?

The molecular weight of h2c2o4 is calculated by summing the atomic weights of its constituent elements. In the case of oxalic acid, you add the atomic weights of two carbon (C) atoms, two hydrogen (H) atoms, and four oxygen (O) atoms.

What are the atomic weights of the elements in oxalic acid?

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021:
Carbon (C): Approximately 12.011 atomic mass units (amu)
Hydrogen (H): Approximately 1.008 amu
Oxygen (O): Approximately 15.999 amu

What is the molecular weight of oxalic acid?

The molecular weight of h2c2o4 is approximately 90.034 grams per mole (g/mol) based on the atomic weights mentioned above.