Reaction XXXI.—Action of Heat on Sodium Formate

Reaction XXXI. Action of Heat on Sodium Formate. (B., 15, 4507.)— When sodium formate is rapidly heated above 440°, an unusual reaction takes place. It loses hydrogen and forms sodium oxalate. 

In the presence of sodium hydroxide, carbonates or oxalates, the reaction takes place at 360° and to a greater extent. (C., 1903, II, 777 1905, II., 367.) Oxidation of formic acid with nitric acid similarly yields oxalic acid. (B., 17, 9.) 

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