carbonic acid

noun

1. the acid, H 2 CO 3 , formed when carbon dioxide dissolves in water, known in the form of its salts and esters, the carbonates.

carbonic acid

noun

1. a weak acid formed when carbon dioxide combines with water: obtained only in aqueous solutions, never in the pure state. Formula: H 2 CO 3

carbonic acid

/ kär-bŏn′ĭk /

1. A weak, unstable acid present in solutions of carbon dioxide in water. It gives carbonated beverages their sharp taste. Chemical formula: H 2 CO 3 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of carbonic acid¹

First recorded in 1785–95

Example Sentences

The carbon dioxide, buffered into carbonic acid, increases acidity in ocean water, which is bad news for corals, clams and other shell-forming creatures.

From Los Angeles Times

When the plant parts are exposed to oxygen and other substances, the organic carbon begins to decompose into inorganic carbon, which can be dissolved into carbonic acid in the water.

From Science Daily

Make a 'ghost glove' by mixing and splitting carbonic acid!

From National Geographic Kids

When sodium bicarbonate combines with acetic acid, they form carbonic acid, which, in the second part of the reaction, divides into carbon dioxide and water.

From National Geographic Kids

Make a 'ghost glove' by mixing and splitting carbonic acid!

From National Geographic Kids