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What does H2CO3 stand for?

Published in Chemistry 1 min read

H2CO3 stands for carbonic acid.

Carbonic acid is a chemical compound with the molecular formula H2CO3. It is a weak acid that forms when carbon dioxide (CO2) dissolves in water (H2O). While the formula is often used, it's important to note that carbonic acid exists predominantly in equilibrium with carbon dioxide and water, especially at low concentrations. The concentration of actual H2CO3 molecules is typically quite low.

Here's a breakdown:

  • H2: Indicates there are two hydrogen atoms.
  • C: Indicates there is one carbon atom.
  • O3: Indicates there are three oxygen atoms.

Therefore, H2CO3 represents the molecular composition of carbonic acid.