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Zinc lactate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H10O6Zn
CAS number
16039-53-5
IUPAC name
2-hydroxypropanoic acid;zinc
State
State

At room temperature, zinc lactate is typically in a solid state, appearing as a fine white powder. It is often utilized in formulations where it remains in the solid state until used.

Melting point (Celsius)
246.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
519.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
243.52g/mol
Molar mass
243.5160g/mol
Density
2.4400g/cm3
Appearence

Zinc lactate typically appears as a white crystalline powder. It is odorless and has a slightly acidic taste. This compound is often used in food and healthcare products due to its ability to act as a preservative and source of zinc, an essential mineral.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid Zinc Salt

When it comes to the solubility of 2-hydroxypropanoic acid (also known as lactic acid) in its zinc salt form, several key factors play a role:

  • Solvent Compatibility: Zinc salts typically exhibit varying solubility in water. The presence of the 2-hydroxypropanoate moiety can enhance solubility due to its polar functional groups.
  • Temperature Influence: Like many salts, the solubility of zinc salts may increase with higher temperatures; this is significant in applications that involve heat.
  • pH Levels: The solubility can also depend heavily on the pH of the solution. For example, at low pH levels, more of the compound may remain in its undissociated form, potentially affecting solubility.

It is essential to note that solubility is influenced by laws of thermodynamics, hydration shell formation, and ionic strength. In practical terms, when assessing the solubility of 2-hydroxypropanoic acid zinc salt, one might encounter that it is generally water-soluble, making it suitable for a variety of aqueous applications:

  1. Biotechnology applications
  2. Materials science
  3. Pharmaceutical formulations

In conclusion, while the solubility of 2-hydroxypropanoic acid zinc salt is favorable under many conditions, the precise solubility will depend on a combination of the above factors, indicating a need for further exploration in specific contexts.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid; Zinc

2-Hydroxypropanoic acid, commonly known as lactic acid, is a fascinating compound with numerous applications in both the food industry and biochemistry. Here are some interesting insights about this compound:

  • Biodiversity in Nature: Lactic acid is produced naturally during fermentation processes in various organisms, including bacteria and muscle cells in animals. This makes it a crucial player in the realm of microbial metabolism.
  • Food Preservation: In the culinary world, lactic acid is widely used as a preservative and flavoring agent. It helps in the fermentation of dairy products (like yogurt) and vegetables (like sauerkraut), enhancing their shelf-life and flavor profile.
  • Biochemical Significance: In the human body, lactic acid plays a pivotal role in anaerobic respiration, especially during intense physical activity, when oxygen is scarce. This process leads to the production of energy, albeit sometimes accompanied by the sensation of muscle fatigue.
  • Versatile Uses: Beyond food, lactic acid is essential in various industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and biodegradable plastics. It serves as a building block for producing lactate esters, which are valuable solvents.
  • Interaction with Zinc: When paired with zinc, lactic acid can form zinc salts, which have potential applications in medicine. Zinc compounds are known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making them beneficial for skin healing and nutrition.

In conclusion, 2-hydroxypropanoic acid is more than just a simple organic acid. Its multifaceted roles in nature, medicine, and industry highlight its exceptional importance in both natural and synthetic processes. As you delve deeper into the study of this compound, you'll discover its profound impact across a variety of fields!

Synonyms
Zinc dilactate
2-hydroxypropanoic acid;zinc
Zinklactat
UNII-2GXR25858Y
CHEBI:81053
MFCD00067561
C17389
E82337