CultureAugust 12, 2026

oxalic

ok-SAL-ik

Definition

Relating to or derived from oxalic acid, a chemical compound often found in plant materials.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word 'oxalis', meaning wood sorrel, a plant high in oxalic acid. It entered English in the 18th century as chemists identified the acid found in these types of plants.

In the news

The term is used to describe the type of acid found during the chemical analysis of the ancient residue inside the bronze bottle. Identifying these specific organic compounds helps researchers confirm the presence of fermented ingredients.

2,300-Year-Old Beer Found Sealed Inside a Bronze Bottle in China

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Arkeonews

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