Oxalate

Oxalate (IUPAC: ethanedioate) is the dianion with the formula C2O4^2−, also written (COO)2^2−. Either name is often used for derivatives, such as salts of oxalic acid, for example sodium oxalate Na2C2O4, or dimethyl oxalate ((CH3)2C2O4). Oxalate also forms coordination compounds where it is sometimes abbreviated as ox.

Chemistry

In chemistry, oxalate is the largest conjugate base of oxalic acid. It is a reducing agent, and its conjugate acid is a strong acid. Oxalate is a chelating agent for metal cations. Typically, oxalate salts are colorless or white, but they form colored complexes with many metal ions.

Biology

In biology, oxalate is found in many plants and can be ingested by humans through the consumption of these plants. Some examples of plants that contain high levels of oxalate include rhubarb, spinach, and beet leaves. Oxalate can also be produced by the human body. It is excreted in urine and can form kidney stones if urine concentration is too high.

Health effects

Ingesting oxalate can lead to a variety of health problems. The most common is the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones. Other health problems can include joint pain, muscle weakness, and digestive problems. In severe cases, ingestion of oxalate can lead to death.

See also

• Oxalic acid
• Calcium oxalate
• Kidney stones

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Oxalate

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  Anion from caesium oxalate crystal structure

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  Anion from potassium oxalate crystal structure

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  Surface of a kidney stone