Skip to main content

Tartaric Acid

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C4H6O6
CAS number
87-69-4
IUPAC name
2,2,3,3-tetrahydroxybutanedioic acid
State
State

At room temperature, tartaric acid is a solid. Due to its crystalline nature, it is often found in a powdered form or as crystalline granules.

Melting point (Celsius)
170.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
443.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
150.09g/mol
Molar mass
150.0870g/mol
Density
1.7600g/cm3
Appearence

Tartaric acid appears as colorless or translucent crystals. It can also be found as a white crystalline powder. These crystals are highly water-soluble and have a slightly sour taste.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2,2,3,3-tetrahydroxybutanedioic acid

2,2,3,3-tetrahydroxybutanedioic acid, a polyol with multiple hydroxyl groups, exhibits intriguing solubility characteristics due to its polar nature. The presence of four hydroxyl groups significantly enhances its ability to interact with water.

Key Solubility Features:

  • High Solubility in Water: The numerous -OH groups allow for extensive hydrogen bonding with water molecules, resulting in excellent solubility.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: While highly soluble in water, its solubility in organic solvents may vary, often being less soluble in non-polar solvents due to its polar nature.
  • Temperature Dependence: Like many organic acids, solubility can increase with temperature, although specific data on this compound may vary.

In summary, the solubility behavior of 2,2,3,3-tetrahydroxybutanedioic acid is predominantly characterized by its strong affinity for water, which is a common trait for compounds with multiple hydroxyl groups. This makes the compound particularly interesting in applications where solubility in aqueous environments is desired.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2,2,3,3-Tetrahydroxybutanedioic Acid

2,2,3,3-Tetrahydroxybutanedioic acid, often referred to as a polyhydroxy dicarboxylic acid, is a fascinating compound that draws interest in various fields of chemistry and biochemistry. Here are some notable aspects:

  • Natural Occurrence: This compound is a derivative of natural products and can be found in certain metabolic pathways.
  • Biochemical Relevance: Its structure, featuring multiple hydroxyl groups, allows it to engage in hydrogen bonding, making it relevant in biochemical interactions.
  • Potential Applications: Researchers are exploring the compound's potential in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics due to its ability to act as a skincare agent.
  • Polyfunctional Character: With four hydroxyl groups, 2,2,3,3-tetrahydroxybutanedioic acid exhibits polyfunctional properties that enable it to participate in various chemical reactions.
  • Importance in Organic Chemistry: Understanding its reactivity and properties can shed light on more complex organic compounds and synthesis methods.

In summary, 2,2,3,3-tetrahydroxybutanedioic acid exemplifies a chemical structure with significant implications for both research and practical applications. It serves as a bridge between organic chemistry and biochemistry, highlighting the interconnectedness of these disciplines.

Synonyms
Dihydroxytartaric acid
76-30-2
TETRAHYDROXYSUCCINIC ACID
2,2,3,3-tetrahydroxybutanedioic acid
Butanedioic acid, tetrahydroxy-
2,2,3,3-Tetrahydroxysuccinic acid
UNII-UVO08BH05I
Dioxytartaric acid
UVO08BH05I
NSC 4647
NSC-4647
EINECS 200-951-3
Tartaric acid, dihydroxy-
Succinic acid, tetrahydroxy-
AI3-12117
DTXSID10226895
NSC4647
DIHYDROXYTARTARIC ACID [MI]
Dioxyweinsaure
SCHEMBL515624
DTXCID40149386
XHWHHMNORMIBBB-UHFFFAOYSA-N
2,2,3,3-Tetrahydroxysuccinicacid
AKOS006295081
Butanedioic acid,2,3,3-tetrahydroxy-
Butanedioic acid, 2,2,3, 3-tetrahydroxy-
DB-056046
NS00041051
Q27291294