Physical properties: Oxalic acid is an odorless, crystalline white solid with density of 1.9 g/mL and melting point of 190 °C. It is commonly found in the hydrate form (COOH)2 · 2H2O. It is water soluble and forms a colorless and acidic solution in water.
Chemical properties: Anhydrous oxalic acid is very hydrophilic and readily absorbs water. It is a strong acid. It is the simplest dicarboxylic acid, and reacts as a typical carboxylic acid, forming the acid chloride and ester derivatives. It is a good reducing agent and acts as a good chelating ligand for various metal cations.