carbonic acid

noun

: a weak dibasic acid H2CO3 known only in solution that reacts with bases to form carbonates

Examples of carbonic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In the half-century that has followed that warning, more of the ice has melted, sea level has risen further and acidification due to ever increasing absorption of carbon dioxide forming carbonic acid has become a critical problem for ocean-dwelling organisms. Sylvia G. Dee, The Conversation, 22 July 2021 The volcano experiment is a simple case of an acid-base reaction where the baking soda, a sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), reacts with acetic acid (C2H4O2) in the vinegar to produce an intermediate product known as carbonic acid (H2CO3). Anthony Martin, Discover Magazine, 5 Aug. 2014 As carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere increase, the seas absorb greater amounts of the gas, which reacts with water to form carbonic acid. Jennifer Barone, Discover Magazine, 10 May 2011 One of the biggest concerns about sparkling water is its effect on dental health, as the carbonation process introduces carbonic acid into the water — a substance that can potentially erode the enamel on your teeth. Hannah Jeon, Good Housekeeping, 9 Nov. 2022 The first product of that reaction is a compound called carbonic acid, which soon gives up its hydrogen ion. WIRED, 2 Nov. 2022 The principle consists in mixing, with the sewage, quantities of lime and clay, combining with the carbonic acid of the fecal matters to form carbonate of lime, in an impalpable powder. Mark Fischetti, Scientific American, 15 June 2022 When the peeling essence is paired with the corresponding balancing mask, carbonic acid bubbles in the treatment change colors, pop, and pull away dead skin cells. Jasmine Washington, Seventeen, 24 Mar. 2022 Some natural baths have fine, mineral-rich volcanic ash and mud components; others, which are acidic, provide an exfoliation effect, while those with carbonic acid help to improve blood circulation, leading to healthy skin. Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'carbonic acid.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of carbonic acid was in 1867

Dictionary Entries Near carbonic acid

Cite this Entry

“Carbonic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/carbonic%20acid. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

carbonic acid

noun
car·​bon·​ic acid
kär-ˈbän-ik-
: a weak acid that is formed from water and carbon dioxide, is found only in mixtures with water, and breaks down easily

Medical Definition

carbonic acid

noun
: a weak dibasic acid H2CO3 known only in solution that reacts with bases to form carbonates

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