Formic acid

Formic acid is a simple carboxylic acid, known for its strong smell and acidic properties. It occurs naturally in some ants and is used by them as a defense mechanism. In industry, formic acid serves various purposes, including as a preservative, a leather tanning agent, and in the production of certain chemicals. It can also be found in household products like some cleaning agents. While it has beneficial uses, formic acid can be hazardous in high concentrations, so proper handling is important to ensure safety.