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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
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 1 Jun. 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
More from Merriam-Webster on carbonic acid
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about carbonic acid
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