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Sodium Benzoate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C7H5NaO2
CAS number
532-32-1
IUPAC name
sodium;benzoate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium benzoate is in a solid state, typically forming as a crystalline powder due to its stable solid crystalline structure.

Melting point (Celsius)
300.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
573.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
250.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
523.00
General information
Molecular weight
144.11g/mol
Molar mass
144.1040g/mol
Density
1.4970g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium benzoate is a white, crystalline powder. It is odorless and has a sweetish astringent taste. The compound is very soluble in water, moderately soluble in ethanol, and practically insoluble in ether. It is commonly used as a food preservative.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate, with the chemical formula C7H5NaO2, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that make it a widely used compound in various applications. Here are some key points about its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Sodium benzoate is highly soluble in water, allowing it to dissolve readily and form a clear solution. This solubility arises from its ionic nature, which facilitates interaction with water molecules.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of sodium benzoate increases with an increase in temperature. Hence, it tends to dissolve better in warm water compared to cold water.
  • Solvent Compatibility: Besides water, sodium benzoate has limited solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol and propylene glycol, which can be attributed to its polar character.

Due to its favorable solubility properties, sodium benzoate is often utilized as a food preservative and in various pharmaceutical formulations. Its ability to form a solution makes it effective in applications that require consistent and reliable performance.

In summary, sodium benzoate’s solubility is a critical factor in its functionality, and it exemplifies how chemical properties influence practical use in different industries.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate is an intriguing compound with diverse applications and properties. Here are some fascinating insights about this widely used compound:

  • Preservative Power: Sodium benzoate is most famously known for its role as a food preservative. It is effective in preventing the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria, particularly in acidic foods and beverages.
  • GRAS Status: The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified sodium benzoate as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS), making it a preferred choice in food processing.
  • Applications Beyond Food: Apart from its use in the food industry, sodium benzoate is found in various products, including:
    • Personal care items like shampoos and lotions
    • Pharmaceutical formulations
    • Industrial applications such as anticorrosive agents
  • pH Sensitivity: The efficiency of sodium benzoate as a preservative is highly dependent on the pH level of the product. It works best in acidic environments (below pH 7).
  • Safety Concerns: While generally safe, sodium benzoate can form benzene, a known carcinogen, when exposed to high levels of heat and light in the presence of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Awareness of this reaction is crucial in food safety.

In summary, sodium benzoate is a compound that showcases the balance between utility and safety in chemistry. Its significance in both food preservation and industrial applications makes it a subject of ongoing research and discussion in the scientific community. Remember, while it contributes to food safety, caution is always encouraged in its application and handling.