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Lactic Acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C3H6O3
CAS number
50-21-5
IUPAC name
alumane;2-hydroxypropanoic acid
State
State

Lactic acid is typically a liquid in its pure form at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
17.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
290.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
122.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
395.15
General information
Molecular weight
90.08g/mol
Molar mass
90.0790g/mol
Density
1.2090g/cm3
Appearence

Lactic acid is a colorless to yellowish, syrupy liquid. It is hygroscopic and has a mildly sour taste. It is common in both biological and industrial contexts, often produced by the fermentation of various carbohydrate sources.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Alumane (AlH3)

Alumane, chemically known as AlH3, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics. The compound is known for its unique solubility behavior influenced by the presence of hydrides in its structure. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Alumane is generally considered to have low solubility in water due to the hydrophobic nature of aluminum hydride.
  • Solvents: It tends to dissolve better in polar organic solvents, such as diethyl ether, which help stabilize its structure.
  • Factors Influencing Solubility: Temperature, pressure, and the presence of other ions or compounds can significantly affect the solubility of alumane.

Therefore, while alumane may not be highly soluble in water, its behavior in organic solvents and response to environmental conditions illustrates the complexity of its solubility profile.

Solubility of 2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid (C3H8O3)

2-Hydroxypropanoic acid, commonly referred to as lactic acid, is known for its excellent solubility properties. Here are some important aspects of its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Lactic acid is highly soluble in water due to its ability to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, making it readily dissociable.
  • Polar Solvents: Besides water, it is also soluble in polar organic solvents, enhancing its utility in various applications.
  • pH Influence: The solubility decreases as the pH of the solution changes; higher pH levels may lead to precipitation as the acid forms its deprotonated form.

This remarkable solubility makes 2-hydroxypropanoic acid a valuable compound in pharmaceutical and food industries, where its properties are utilized for different formulations and applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Alumane and 2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid

Alumane is a fascinating chemical compound with intriguing properties and applications. It is primarily known for its role in various chemical reactions and its potential in materials science. Some key aspects include:

  • Application in Fuel Cells: Alumane is explored for its potential use in fuel cells due to its ability to release hydrogen, making it a candidate for sustainable energy solutions.
  • Manipulation of Aluminum: The compound allows chemists to study the behavior of aluminum in different chemical environments, thereby aiding in the development of new aluminum alloys.
  • Coordination Chemistry: Alumane’s ability to coordinate with other elements enables researchers to delve into complex chemical structures and materials.

In contrast, 2-Hydroxypropanoic acid, commonly known as lactic acid, is an organic compound with a rich history and significant biological relevance:

  • Biological Importance: Lactic acid plays a crucial role in metabolism, particularly in anaerobic respiration in muscles, where it is produced during intense exercise.
  • Food Industry: This compound is widely used in the food industry as a preservative, flavoring agent, and acidity regulator. It is instrumental in the production of yogurt and fermented products.
  • Applications in Cosmetics: Lactic acid is a popular ingredient in skincare products due to its exfoliating properties and its ability to improve skin hydration.

Both alumane and 2-hydroxypropanoic acid exemplify the diverse and impactful nature of chemical compounds, showcasing their essential roles in both industrial and biological processes.