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Silver lactate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C3H5AgO3
CAS number
128-00-5
IUPAC name
2-hydroxypropanoic acid;silver
State
State

At room temperature, silver lactate is in a solid state. It is generally stable under normal conditions and can exist in crystalline powder form.

Melting point (Celsius)
210.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
483.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
196.95g/mol
Molar mass
196.9460g/mol
Density
3.6200g/cm3
Appearence

Silver lactate is typically a white or slightly gray crystalline solid. Depending on the purity and form, it can exhibit a powdery texture. The presence of silver imparts a slight grayish tint compared to the pure organic acid form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid (Silver Salt)

2-Hydroxypropanoic acid, commonly known as lactic acid, forms various salts, including those with metals like silver. The solubility of these silver salts can be quite interesting:

  • General Solubility: Metal salts, like silver salts of organic acids, often exhibit unique solubility characteristics.
  • Water Solubility: Silver salts of 2-hydroxypropanoic acid typically have low solubility in water due to the formation of precipitates.
  • Influencing Factors: The solubility can be influenced by factors such as temperature, pH, and concentration of other ions present in the solution.
  • Complex Formation: In some cases, the presence of ligands can enhance or impede solubility by forming complex ions with silver.

As a general trend in coordination chemistry, the ability to solvate a metal ion in solution does vary:

  1. The formation of stronger interactions with water molecules can increase solubility.
  2. However, if precipitation occurs due to low solubility product constants, the salt may not fully dissolve.

To summarize, while the silver salt of 2-hydroxypropanoic acid has limited solubility in water, the specific conditions of the solution play a significant role in determining its actual solubility profile. As always, it’s crucial to consider both chemical and environmental factors when assessing solubility.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid

2-Hydroxypropanoic acid, more commonly known as lactic acid, is a fascinating compound with a variety of biological and industrial applications. Here are some intriguing points that highlight its significance:

  • Biological Importance: Lactic acid is produced naturally in the body during the process of anaerobic respiration, primarily in muscle cells during intense exercise. This production is crucial for energy under low oxygen conditions.
  • Food Industry: It plays a significant role in the food industry, serving as a preservative and flavoring agent in products like yogurt and fermented foods. The sour taste is often attributed to lactic acid, which contributes to the unique profiles of these products.
  • Cosmetic Applications: Lactic acid is also a popular ingredient in cosmetic formulations due to its hydrating and exfoliating properties. It is considered an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) and helps improve skin texture and appearance.
  • Biodegradable Plastics: In the realm of sustainability, lactic acid is a key precursor in the production of polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable plastic that is environmentally friendly and has gained popularity as an alternative to petroleum-based plastics.
  • Medicinal Uses: Lactic acid is used in various medical applications, including its role in pH regulation in intravenous solutions and its inclusion in certain injection therapies aimed at promoting healing in muscle tissues.

Fun Fact:

Did you know that the presence of lactic acid in muscles is what causes the burning sensation often felt after intense physical activity? While this discomfort is temporary, it serves as a signal for the body to adapt and strengthen!

With its broad spectrum of applications and importance in both human physiology and industry, 2-hydroxypropanoic acid continues to be an area of active research and innovation.

Quote:

"Lactic acid is not just a product of exertion; it is a versatile compound that bridges biology and industry." – A Chemical Scientist

Synonyms
SILVERLACTATE
MFCD00043279
Silver lactate, 97%
Silver lactate, for histology
CS-0111239