succinic acid (HOOC(CH2)2COOH)

succinic acid (HOOC(CH2)2COOH) /suksin″ik/ , a dicarboxylic acid found in certain hydatid cysts and in lichens, amber, and fossils. Commercial succinic acid, produced by the fermentation of ammonium tartrate, is used in lacquer and dyes. Succinic acid was formerly used in the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.