Which one of the following naturally occurring acids is found in abundance in tomato ?

Tomatoes contain a variety of organic acids that contribute to their flavor profile, including citric, malic, and oxalic acids [1]. While modern biochemical analysis often identifies citric and malic acids as the most abundant by concentration in many cultivars, standard educational sources and competitive examinations in India, such as those based on NCERT, specifically identify oxalic acid as the characteristic naturally occurring acid found in tomatoes [1]. Oxalic acid is a dicarboxylic acid that occurs naturally in many fruits and vegetables. Other options like acetic acid are primarily found in vinegar, tartaric acid is characteristic of tamarind and grapes, and citric acid is the dominant acid in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges [1]. Therefore, based on the standard curriculum and provided source materials, oxalic acid is the correct answer [1].

Sources

1. [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 2: Acids, Bases and Salts > Table 2.3 Some naturally occurring acids > p. 28