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Citric Acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H8O7
CAS number
77-92-9
IUPAC name
2-acetoxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid
State
State

At room temperature, citric acid is typically found as a solid in the form of a crystalline or powdery substance.

Melting point (Celsius)
153.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
426.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
310.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
583.15
General information
Molecular weight
192.12g/mol
Molar mass
192.1240g/mol
Density
1.6650g/cm3
Appearence

Citric acid is a white crystalline powder. It is commonly available in powder or granular form and is often found as colorless crystals. It is highly soluble in water, imparting an acidic taste to the solution.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-acetoxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid

2-acetoxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, commonly known as citric acid, exhibits unique solubility characteristics that enhance its utility in various applications. Its solubility can be described as follows:

  • Aqueous Solubility: Citric acid is highly soluble in water. This property is primarily due to its multiple carboxylic acid groups which can readily form hydrogen bonds with water molecules.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: While citric acid is very soluble in water, its solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone is moderate. This is interesting as it limits its use in specific organic synthesis applications.
  • Effect of Temperature: The solubility of citric acid in water increases significantly with temperature. For instance, at elevated temperatures, you will find that the solubility can be enhanced, making it easier to dissolve crystalline forms.
  • pH Influence: The solubility also depends on the pH of the solution. In acidic environments, 2-acetoxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid remains more soluble than in neutral or basic conditions due to protonation effects.

In summary, the solubility of 2-acetoxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is a fascinating subject, embodying a wide range of solubility behaviors that reflect its structural features and functional groups. Understanding these properties is crucial for effective application in food science, pharmaceuticals, and chemical synthesis.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-acetoxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid

2-acetoxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, commonly known as citric acid, is a fascinating compound with a multitude of applications and biological significance. Here are some compelling points about this remarkable acid:

  • Natural Occurrence: This compound is widely found in citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges, giving them their distinctive sour taste.
  • Metabolic Role: Citric acid plays a critical role in the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), which is essential for cellular respiration and energy production in aerobic organisms.
  • Preservative Properties: Due to its acidity, citric acid is often used as a natural preservative in the food industry. It helps inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold.
  • pH Control: It is an effective pH stabilizer and is commonly used to regulate the acidity in various food products, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
  • Chelating Agent: Citric acid functions as a chelating agent, meaning it can bind to metal ions, making it useful in cleaning and industrial processes.
  • Culinary Uses: In addition to its role as a preservative, citric acid is also utilized in cooking and baking for flavor enhancement and as a souring agent.
  • Environmental Benefits: As a biodegradable compound, citric acid is considered an eco-friendly alternative to many harsher chemicals found in both household and industrial cleaning products.

In summary, 2-acetoxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid isn’t just a simple carboxylic acid; it is a compound with vital roles in nature and diverse applications in numerous industries. Its multifunctionality and natural origin make it a compound of great interest for both scientists and consumers alike.

Synonyms
CITRIC ACID ACETATE
acetylcitric acid
UNII-DSO12WL7AU
DSO12WL7AU
17140-33-9
2-(Acetyloxy)propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid
DTXSID00169085
DTXCID4091576
SCHEMBL284431
Q27276582