What is the Difference Between Oxalate and Oxalic Acid?

The terms "oxalate" and "oxalic acid" are often used interchangeably in nutrition science, but there are some differences between them. Here are the key points:

• Oxalic Acid: Oxalic acid is an organic compound with the chemical formula H2C2O4. It is a white crystalline solid that forms a colorless solution in water. Oxalic acid is found in many foods, including leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, cocoa, nuts, and seeds. It can also be synthesized by the human body.
• Oxalate: Oxalate is an anion with the chemical formula C2O42-. It is formed when oxalic acid binds to minerals. In plants, oxalate is usually bound to minerals, forming oxalate. The body can either produce oxalate as a waste product or obtain it from the diet.

In summary, oxalic acid is an organic compound found in various foods and produced by the human body, while oxalate is an anion that forms when oxalic acid binds to minerals. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they represent different chemical forms of the same substance.

Comparative Table: Oxalate vs Oxalic Acid

Here is a table comparing the differences between oxalate and oxalic acid:

Oxalate is an anion with the chemical formula C2O42-, while oxalic acid is an organic compound with the chemical formula H2C2O4. Oxalate is the conjugate base of oxalic acid, and they have different acid strengths and reducing agent properties.