Question

Oxalic acid (H₂C₂O₄) is a diprotic acid found in Rhubarb leaves. Write out the ionization reactions for oxalic acid when it reacts with water. Give the states involved.
step 1:

step 2:

Answer 1

Step 1: H₂C₂O₄ (aq)    $\rightleftharpoons$    C₂HO₄^- (aq) + H⁺ (aq)
Step 2: HC₂O₄^- (aq) $\rightleftharpoons$ C₂O₄^2- (aq) + H⁺ (aq)

Overall: H₂C₂O₄ (aq)    $\rightleftharpoons$ C₂O₄^2- (aq) + 2 H+ (aq)