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Problem: Oxalic acid (H2C2O4) is found in toxic concentrations in rhubarb leaves. The acid forms two ions, HC2O4− and C2O42−, by the sequential loss of H + ions. Draw Lewis structures for the three species, and comment on the relative lengths and strengths of their carbon-oxygen bonds. The connections among the atoms are shown below with single bonds only.

🤓 Based on our data, we think this question is relevant for Professor Finnegan's class at WSU.

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Oxalic acid


H2C2O4 (aq) + H2O (l) ⇌ HC2O4- (aq)


HC2O4- (aq) + H2O (l) ⇌ C2O42- (aq)


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Problem Details

Oxalic acid (H2C2O4) is found in toxic concentrations in rhubarb leaves. The acid forms two ions, HC2O4− and C2O42−, by the sequential loss of H + ions. Draw Lewis structures for the three species, and comment on the relative lengths and strengths of their carbon-oxygen bonds. The connections among the atoms are shown below with single bonds only.

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Based on our data, we think this problem is relevant for Professor Finnegan's class at WSU.

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Our data indicates that this problem or a close variation was asked in Chemistry: The Molecular Nature of Matter and Change - Silberberg 8th Edition. You can also practice Chemistry: The Molecular Nature of Matter and Change - Silberberg 8th Edition practice problems.