Formic acid belongs to the family of carboxylic acids and has the chemical formula HCOOH or HCO₂H. The carbon atom has a double bond with one of the oxygen atoms. It is the simplest carboxylic acid and has the lowest molecular weight (46.03). A colorless, corrosive liquid with a sharp odor, formic acid boils at 213.3°F (100.7°C) and solidifies at 47.1°F (8.4°C). Like other acids, it reacts with most alcohols to form esters and decomposes when heated; it is also easily oxidized.

Formic acid decomposes slowly at room temperature into carbon monoxide (CO) and Water (H₂O). Decomposition is dependent on temperature and concentration. Though it is neither explosive nor spontaneously flammable in air, formic acid is flammable under certain conditions and is corrosive. It is also considered an environmental contaminant of air and water and has been identified as the toxic...