FORMIC ACID

also called Methanoic Acid (HCO2H), the simplest of the carboxylic acids, used in processing textiles and leather. It is made by the action of sulfuric acid upon sodium formate, which is produced from carbon monoxide and sodium hydroxide. Formic acid is not a typical carboxylic acid: it is distinguished by its acid strength, its failure to form an anhydride, and its reactivity as a reducing agent, a property due to the -CH=O group, which imparts some of the character of an aldehyde. The methyl and ethyl esters of formic acid are commercially produced. Concentrated sulfuric acid dehydrates it to carbon monoxide. Pure formic acid is a colourless, fuming liquid with a pungent odour; it irritates the mucous membranes and blisters the skin. It freezes at 8.4 C and boils at 100.7 C.