Definition and Uses :
Pure formic acid is a colorless liquid with a corrosive and pungent odor. Its density is 1.22 g / mL, its melting point is 8.4 ° C and its boiling point is 101 ° C. It is completely miscible with water.
Formic acid is a weak acid that behaves like a typical carboxylic acid and has some aldehyde-like properties. It reacts readily with alcohols to form esters. Formic acid decomposes in the presence of acids or heat to give carbon monoxide (CO) and water. In the presence of platinum, it decomposes instead to carbon dioxide and hydrogen.
Formic acid exhibits exoteric reactions with all bases, both organic (e.g., amines) and inorganic. It reacts with active metals to form gaseous hydrogen and a metal salt. It reacts with cyanide salts to form gaseous hydrogen cyanide. Reacts with diazo compounds, dithiocarbamates, isocyanates, mercaptans, nitrites, and sulfites to produce flammable or toxic gases. Reacts with sulfites, nitrites, thiosulfates (to give H2S and SO3), dithionites (SO2) to produce flammable and/or toxic gases and heat. Reacts with carbonates and bicarbonates to produce carbon dioxide, but still heat. Can be oxidized by strong oxidizing agents and reduced by strong reducing agents. These reactions produce heat. Can initiate polymerization reactions or catalyze other chemical reactions.