Sodium oxalate

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Structural formula of sodium oxalate

Sodium oxalate is a chemical compound with the formula Na₂C₂O₄. It is the sodium salt of oxalic acid, and it appears as a white, crystalline, odorless solid. Sodium oxalate is used in various applications, including as a reducing agent in chemical reactions and in the preparation of other oxalates.

Chemical properties

Sodium oxalate is a sodium salt of oxalic acid, and it is a dicarboxylate salt. It is soluble in water, and its aqueous solution is slightly basic due to the hydrolysis of the oxalate ion. The compound can act as a reducing agent, and it is often used in titrations as a primary standard for potassium permanganate solutions.

Uses

Sodium oxalate is used in various industrial and laboratory applications. It serves as a reducing agent in chemical processes and is used in the preparation of other oxalate compounds. In analytical chemistry, sodium oxalate is used as a standard in redox titrations, particularly with potassium permanganate.

Safety

Sodium oxalate is considered to be toxic if ingested, as it can cause hypocalcemia by binding to calcium ions in the body, forming insoluble calcium oxalate. This can lead to kidney stones and other health issues. Proper handling and storage are necessary to prevent accidental ingestion or exposure.

Related compounds

• Oxalic acid
• Calcium oxalate
• Potassium oxalate

Related pages

• Oxalate
• Sodium carbonate
• Sodium bicarbonate