Terephthalic acid Terephthalic acid Terephthalic acid is an organic compound with formula CH(COH). This white solid is a commodity chemical, used principally as a precursor to the polyester PET, used to make clothing and plastic bottles. Several million tonnes are produced annually. The common name is derived from the turpentine-producing tree "Pistacia terebinthus" and phthalic acid. Terephthalic acid was first isolated (from turpentine) by the French chemist Amédée Cailliot (1805–1884) in 1846. Terephthalic acid became industrially important after World War II. Terephthalic acid was produced by oxidation of "p"-xylene with dilute nitric acid. Air oxidation of "p"-xylene gives "p"-toluic acid, which resists
Chlorous acid Chlorous acid Chlorous acid is an inorganic compound with the formula HClO. It is a weak acid. Chlorine has oxidation state +3 in this acid. The pure substance is unstable, disproportionating to hypochlorous acid (Cl oxidation state +1) and chloric acid (Cl oxidation state +5): Although the acid is difficult to obtain in pure substance, the conjugate base, chlorite, derived from this acid is stable. One example of a salt of this anion is the well-known sodium chlorite. This and related salts are sometimes used in the production of chlorine dioxide. HClO can be prepared through reaction of barium or