a soluble colourless crystalline acid used in the synthesis of dyes and perfumes; 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid. Formula: C6H4(COOH)2
Word origin
C19 phthalic, from phthal- (see phthalein) +-ic
phthalic acid in American English
(ˈθælɪk; ˈfθælɪk)
any of three isomeric acids, C6H4(COOH)2, esp. one (ortho-phthalic acid) obtained by oxidation of naphthalene or xylene and used in the manufacture of dyes, medicines, etc.