Formate (
IUPAC name:
methanoate) is the anion derived from
formic acid. Its formula is represented in various equivalent ways: CHOO
- or HCOO
- or HCO
2-. It is the product of deprotonation of formic acid. It is the simplest
carboxylate anion. A
formate (compound) is a
salt or
ester of
formic acid.