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Glyceric acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C3H6O4
CAS number
473-81-4
IUPAC name
2,3-dihydroxypropanoic acid
State
State

Glyceric acid is typically found as a solid at room temperature but can also be found as a syrupy liquid due to its hygroscopic nature.

Melting point (Celsius)
71.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
344.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
221.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
494.15
General information
Molecular weight
106.09g/mol
Molar mass
106.0940g/mol
Density
1.4890g/cm3
Appearence

Glyceric acid is a colorless or white crystalline solid that is hygroscopic. It is often available in the form of a syrupy liquid or powder due to its ability to absorb moisture from the air.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic Acid

2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic acid, or C3H6O4, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics due to its functional groups and molecular structure. This compound is a type of carboxylic acid with two hydroxyl groups, which significantly affects its interaction with solvents. Here are some key points about its solubility:

  • Polar Nature: The presence of both hydroxyl (-OH) and carboxyl (-COOH) groups imparts a high degree of polarity to the molecule, enhancing its affinity for water.
  • Aqueous Solubility: 2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic acid is highly soluble in water. This is attributed to hydrogen bonding capabilities with water molecules, making it readily dissolve.
  • Solvent Compatibility: In addition to water, this compound can be soluble in a range of organic solvents, especially those with polar characteristics such as alcohols and ethers.
  • Influence of pH: The solubility may vary with pH; at lower pH levels, the ionization of the carboxylic group can enhance solubility due to increased charge interactions with solvent molecules.

In conclusion, the overall solubility of 2,3-dihydroxypropanoic acid in water can be described as highly favorable, making it an important compound in various chemical applications, especially where aqueous conditions prevail.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic Acid

2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic acid, also known as lactic acid, is a fascinating compound that plays a significant role in both biochemistry and food science. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Metabolic Significance: 2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic acid is produced in the body during anaerobic respiration, particularly in muscle cells when oxygen is scarce. It serves as a crucial intermediate in metabolic pathways.
  • Food Industry Applications: This compound is commonly found in fermented products and is responsible for the tangy flavor in items like yogurt and sauerkraut. Its acidifying properties help to preserve food.
  • Pharmaceutical Uses: Lactic acid is also utilized in various medical applications, including its use in intravenous solutions and as an additive in certain pharmaceutical products that assist with pH regulation.
  • Environmental Impact: This organic acid plays a key role in bioremediation processes. Its ability to chelate metals makes it beneficial in cleaning up contaminated environments.

Considering its diverse roles, 2,3-dihydroxypropanoic acid demonstrates how a single compound can be essential across multiple fields—from health and nutrition to environmental science. As scientists continue to explore its potential, the multifunctional characteristics of this compound may pave the way for innovative applications in the future.

Synonyms
GLYCERIC ACID
DL-Glyceric acid
473-81-4
2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic acid
600-19-1
Propanoic acid, 2,3-dihydroxy-
Glycerolic acid
Glyceronic acid
beta-Hydroxylactic acid
DL-2,3-Dihydroxypropionic Acid
2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic acid(20% in water)
2,3-dihydroxypropionic acid
70KH64UX7G
EINECS 207-472-9
GLYCERIC ACID [MI]
118916-26-0
CHEBI:33508
DTXSID80861979
NSC9227
MFCD00065927
Glyceric Acid (20% in Water,ca.2 mol/L)
alpha,beta-Hydroxypropionic acid
a,b-Hydroxypropionate
a,b-Hydroxypropionic acid
C3H6O4
Glyceric acid, DL-
(+-)-Glyceric acid
UNII-70KH64UX7G
glycerol ether
a-hydroxylactic acid
GLYCERIC ACID, (D)
SCHEMBL38462
DL-2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic acid
DTXCID50219004
GLYCERIC ACID, (+/-)
GLYCERIC ACID, (+/-)-
NSC-9227
DL-Glyceric acid; (20% in water)
STL268888
AKOS015893067
CS-W018821
FG29286
FS-4174
HY-W018035
SB44946
Propanoic acid,3-dihydroxy-, (.+-.)-
SY054966
2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic acid 20% in water
DB-053514
DB-070797
DB-072735
D0602
NS00079803
2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic acid (20% in water)
A51166
DL-Glyceric acid - 20% in Water ca. 2mol/L
DL-Glyceric Acid (20% in Water, ca. 2mol/L)
DL-Glyceric acid; (20% in Water ca. 2mol/L)
2,3-Dihydroxypropanoic acid [20% in water w/w]
Q424906
3E9B4D59-D526-4D1F-A6D8-566E4D962CA5
DL-GLYCERIC ACID (20% IN WATER, CA. 2MOL/L) 95%
InChI=1/C3H6O4/c4-1-2(5)3(6)7/h2,4-5H,1H2,(H,6,7
207-472-9
74I