phthalic acid

noun

1. Chemistry. any of three isomeric acids having the formula C 8 H 6 O 4 , especially the ortho isomer orthophthalic acid, a colorless, crystalline, slightly water-soluble solid used chiefly in the manufacture of dyes, medicine, and perfume.
2. isophthalic acid.
3. terephthalic acid.

phthalic acid

/ ˈfθæl-; ˈθælɪk /

noun

1. a soluble colourless crystalline acid used in the synthesis of dyes and perfumes; 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid. Formula: C 6 H 4 (COOH) 2

phthalic acid

/ thăl′ĭk,fthăl′- /

1. A colorless, crystalline organic acid prepared from naphthalene and used in the synthesis of dyes, perfumes, and other organic compounds. Chemical formula: C 8 H 6 O 4 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of phthalic acid¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Word History and Origins

Origin of phthalic acid¹

C19 phthalic, from phthal- (see phthalein ) + -ic

Example Sentences

Thus the dinitronaphthol described as Manchester yellow, if heated for some time with dilute nitric acid, furnishes phthalic acid.

From Project Gutenberg

Phthalic acid, which was discovered in 1836 by Laurent, is a product of the oxidation of many benzenoid compounds.

From Project Gutenberg

Dilute nitric acid oxidizes it to phthalic acid, and sodium reduces it in alcoholic solution to hydrindene, C9H10.

From Project Gutenberg