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

When CO2 dissolves in water, it can react to form carbonic acid, which, through further reactions, can then become bicarbonate and carbonate.

From Science Daily

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

From National Geographic Kids

Some of the dissolved CO₂ reacts with the water to form carbonic acid, which has a chemical formula of H₂CO₃.

From Salon