On the Organic and Inorganic Properties of Hydroxy Acetic Acid
Existing substance, known as hydroxy acetic acid. Its properties are organic or inorganic, and there are different opinions, and the commentators hold different opinions.

Organic theorists believe that hydroxy acetic acid contains carbon, hydrogen and oxygen elements, and the carbon chain is connected, and its structure has the characteristics of typical organic compounds. Looking at its molecules, carbon is the skeleton, and hydrogen and oxygen are connected to it to form a specific functional group. Hydroxy and carboxyl groups are common groups in organic compounds, and such functional groups give them the possibility to participate in many organic reactions. If it can be esterified with alcohols to form ester compounds, this is a typical reaction of organic chemistry. According to this, hydroxy acetic acid should be classified as an organic compound.

Inorganic theorists also have evidence. Hydroxyacetic acid can be partially ionized in aqueous solution, showing a certain acidity. Some of its chemical properties are similar to inorganic acids. And under specific conditions, its reaction mechanism is similar to that of inorganic compounds. For example, in some redox reactions, it exhibits properties similar to inorganic acid ions, so it may be regarded as an inorganic compound with special properties.

In fact, the properties of hydroxyacetic acid can not be generalized. It is at the boundary of organic and inorganic chemistry and has both characteristics. From the perspective of molecular structure and most reaction characteristics, it should belong to the category of organic compounds. However, its properties similar to inorganic compounds in specific environments cannot be ignored. This unique property makes hydroxyacetic acid widely used in many fields, whether it is organic synthesis or inorganic chemistry related processes. To clarify its properties, when considering its structure, reaction and application comprehensively, it cannot be concluded from one end alone.