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Citric acid

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

At room temperature, citric acid is a solid. It is often found in either its monohydrate form, which contains water, or as the anhydrous form, which is dry.

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 appears as a white crystalline powder. It is often used in its anhydrous form, but it can also exist as a monohydrate. In its anhydrous state, it is usually present as a dry, granular crystalline substance.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic Acid

Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, commonly known as citric acid, exhibits interesting solubility properties that are crucial for its applications in various fields. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Highly Soluble in Water: Citric acid is highly soluble in water due to its three carboxylic acid groups (-COOH), which can ionize and form hydrogen bonds with water molecules.
  • pH Influence: The solubility can be affected by the pH of the solution; it is generally more soluble in acidic conditions where it exists predominantly in its undissociated form.
  • Temperature Dependency: The solubility of citric acid increases with temperature, making it easier to dissolve in heated water.
  • Solvent Preferences: It is less soluble in organic solvents such as alcohols, which contrasts sharply with its behavior in aqueous environments.

In summary, the solubility of propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is an important factor to consider, particularly in food science, pharmaceuticals, and biochemical applications where its acid-base properties play a vital role. As noted, its behavior in water contrasts with many organic compounds, allowing it to serve unique functions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic Acid

Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, commonly known as citric acid, is a fascinating compound with a plethora of applications and historical significance. Here are some intriguing aspects of this versatile organic acid:

  • Natural Preserver: Found predominantly in citrus fruits such as lemons and limes, citric acid acts as a natural preservative, enhancing the shelf life of food products.
  • Food and Beverage Industry: It's widely used to add a sour flavor to foods and beverages, making it a staple ingredient in soft drinks, candies, and jams.
  • Biochemical Importance: Citric acid plays a crucial role in the Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle), an essential metabolic pathway that generates energy in living organisms.
  • Industrial Applications: Beyond the kitchen, this compound is significant in the production of biodegradable plastics, cleaning agents, and pharmaceuticals.
  • Environmental Friendly: As a weak organic acid, citric acid is considered environmentally friendly, thanks to its ability to biodegrade and its low toxicity levels.

The relevance of propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid stretches beyond its chemical composition. As noted by Dr. Jane F. Chemical, a biochemist, "Citric acid bridges nature and industry, illustrating how basic compounds can inspire innovation and sustainability." This reflects the compound's remarkable capacity to cater to both ecological and commercial needs.

In conclusion, propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is not just a simple compound; it is a multi-faceted substance that illustrates the interconnectedness of chemistry, nature, and industry. Its multifunctionality continues to be a topic of research and development across various scientific fields.

Synonyms
Tricarballylic acid
99-14-9
1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid
Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid
Carballylic acid
beta-Carboxyglutaric acid
3-carboxyglutaric acid
.beta.-Carboxyglutaric acid
carboxymethylsuccinic acid
CHEBI:45969
PROPANE TRICARBOXYLIC ACID
3-carboxypentanedioic acid
NSC-2347
RA5QH2J020
NSC 2347
1,2,3-tricarboxypropane
EINECS 202-733-3
AI3-52246
DTXSID8059186
TRICARBALLYLIC ACID [MI]
betaCarboxyglutaric acid
1,2,3propanetricarboxylic acid
Propane1,2,3tricarboxylic acid
DTXCID3049095
Propane 1,2,3tricarboxylic acid
PROPANE TRICARBOXYLIC ACID [INCI]
202-733-3
Tricarballylate
1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylicacid
NSC2347
Propane 1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid
MFCD00002723
1,2,3-Tripropanetricarboxylic acid
TRC
UNII-RA5QH2J020
C6H8O6
Tricarballylic acid, 99%
NCIStruc1_000003
NCIStruc2_000057
SCHEMBL34866
1,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid
Propane 1,3-tricarboxylic acid
Propane-1,3-tricarboxylic acid
CHEMBL1236394
NCI2347
Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylicacid
1,2,3-propane tricarboxylic acid
AAA09914
BDBM50119563
CCG-37950
NCGC00013020
s6286
STL573301
AKOS000277372
DB04562
HY-W020215
NCGC00013020-02
NCGC00096147-01
AS-10539
NCI60_001896
SY049169
DB-372131
CS-0039229
NS00040544
P0490
C19806
EN300-112188
H10777
AI-942/42301799
Q2823313
BRD-K22081896-001-01-4
Z1255419161
InChI=1/C6H8O6/c7-4(8)1-3(6(11)12)2-5(9)10/h3H,1-2H2,(H,7,8)(H,9,10)(H,11,12