Silicic Acid Formula, Structure, Properties, and Uses

Silicic Acid Formula: The silicic acid formula is H₄SiO₄. and it is also referred to as the orthosilicic acid formula or monosilicic acid formula. Silicic acid is classified as a silicon oxoacid and serves as the conjugate acid of Trihydrogensilicate. Its molecular formula is H₄O₄Si.

Orthosilicic acid is a compound combination of hydrogen, oxygen, and silicon. It is naturally present in borage and can be acquired in the form of an unstable aqueous solution.

Silicic Acid Formula

Silicic acid, composed of silicon, hydrogen, and oxygen, serves as the foundational precursor for the vast family of minerals, esters, and salts known as silicates. Among the key silicon compounds, orthosilicic acid stands out as the most fundamental. It is the smallest unit of both silica and silicates, which are the most prevalent naturally occurring substances within the Earth’s crust. 

While its average concentration is relatively low, orthosilicic acid is plentiful in oceans and rivers, playing a crucial role in the silicon cycle through both biological and non-biological processes on the continents. Furthermore, orthosilicic acid holds significance in the development of gramineous plants, cellular metabolism, as well as the formation of bone, connective tissue, skin, hair, and nails in humans and other animals.

Silicic Acid Formula Structure

Silicic acid is also known as monosilicic acid or orthosilicic acid. It is represented by the chemical formula H₄O₄Si. Silicic acid exists in both crystalline and amorphous forms.

Silicic Acid Formula Physical Properties

• Molecular Weight: 96.113 g/mol
• Covalent Bond: Single
• Conjugate Base: Orthosilicate

Silicic acid is present in two forms crystalline and amorphous. Crystalline silicic acid is produced through a precipitation process, while amorphous silicic acid is commonly associated with minerals and is often considered a gemstone.

Crystalline silicic acid is white in color and possesses an indistinct structure (SiO3). Its amorphous structure renders it water-insoluble and flavorless. In its transparent state, this compound remains unreactive with oxyacids.

When silicic acid or its solution is introduced to a silicate solution, a hydrated gel-like structure is formed. This structure can be dried and cooled to produce an insoluble substance.

Silicic Acid Formula Chemical Properties

When the pH approaches 10, silicic acid exhibits weak acidity and can lose its initial proton, with only three acid reactions identified under typical physiological conditions.

Exceeding its solubility limit leads to the formation of amorphous silica hydrate when silicic acid reacts with itself.

When silicic acid reacts with aluminum hydroxide, it results in the formation of aluminum silicate hydroxide.

An excess reaction can produce Silicomolybdate, a heteropolyacid involving molybdate.

Uses of Silicic Acid

Toothpaste: Silicic acid plays a vital role in toothpaste formulations, either as an abrasive gel or as free particles incorporated into toothpaste. When combined with calcium carbonate, it aids in the gentle removal of plaque through brushing. This compound has received approval as a safe ingredient from the United States Food and Drug Administration and is known for its non-toxic and non-carcinogenic properties.

Bone Health: In a 2008 study involving 136 women with osteopenia, orthosilicic acid was administered alongside calcium and vitamin D or a placebo for a year. The results showed improved bone development in the group that received orthosilicic acid. This improvement is attributed to the acid’s ability to stimulate collagen production (a protein found in connective tissue) and promote the formation of bone-forming cells.

Hair Health: A small study conducted in 2007 suggests that orthosilicic acid may contribute to enhanced hair quality and overall hair health. In this study, 48 women with “fine hair” were divided into two groups, one receiving a placebo and the other an orthosilicic acid supplement for several months. Researchers observed that orthosilicic acid appeared to increase hair strength and thickness. Additionally, the overall quality of hair was improved with orthosilicic acid supplementation.

Desiccant: When subjected to heating, silicic acid loses water content and transforms into a desiccant, a substance that attracts moisture from the air. You can find small packets of silica gel crystals in various products that are susceptible to damage from humidity, such as vitamin containers, electronics, shoes, and leather goods.

Health Benefits of Orthosilicic Acid: Orthosilicic acid is the kind of silicon that our bodies can use best, and scientists have looked at it to see if it can help with health issues like Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, heart problems, osteoporosis, and even making hair healthier.