carbonic

[kahr-bon-ik]

adjective

1. containing tetravalent carbon, as carbonic acid, H 2 CO 3 .

carbonic

/ kɑːˈbɒnɪk /

adjective

1. (of a compound) containing carbon, esp tetravalent carbon

Word History and Origins

Origin of carbonic¹

First recorded in 1785–95; carbon + -ic

Example Sentences

This happens because carbon dioxide from the air dissolves in rainwater to form carbonic acid - this then percolates through the rock and reacts with it, causing it to dissolve.

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The carbon dioxide, buffered into carbonic acid, increases acidity in ocean water, which is bad news for corals, clams and other shell-forming creatures.

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When the plant parts are exposed to oxygen and other substances, the organic carbon begins to decompose into inorganic carbon, which can be dissolved into carbonic acid in the water.

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When CO2 dissolves in water, it can react to form carbonic acid, which, through further reactions, can then become bicarbonate and carbonate.

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Make a 'ghost glove' by mixing and splitting carbonic acid!

Read more on National Geographic Kids