Skip to main content

Citrate

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C6H5O7
CAS number
77-92-9
IUPAC name
3-hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylate
State
State

Citrate is generally in a solid state at room temperature and commonly handled in its crystalline form.

Melting point (Celsius)
153.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
426.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
-94.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
179.00
General information
Molecular weight
192.12g/mol
Molar mass
192.1240g/mol
Density
1.6650g/cm3
Appearence

Citrate typically appears as a white, crystalline powder. It is odorless and has a sour taste due to its acidity. It is often found in its hydrated form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylate

3-hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylate, with the chemical formula C6H5O7, exhibits noteworthy solubility characteristics. Its solubility can be compared to similar organic compounds featuring multiple carboxylic acid groups:

  • Water Solubility: This compound is expected to be highly soluble in water due to the presence of three carboxylic acid functional groups, which can hydrogen bond effectively with water molecules.
  • Influence of pH: The solubility may vary with changes in pH; in acidic conditions, the carboxyl groups may remain partially protonated, possibly enhancing solubility.
  • Temperature Variations: As with many organic acids, an increase in temperature can lead to increased solubility, allowing for better dissolution.

In summary, the solubility of 3-hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylate is significantly influenced by its molecular structure, environmental conditions, and interactions with solvents. It is critical to conduct specific experiments to determine precise solubility metrics under various conditions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3-Hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylate

3-Hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylate, also known as citric acid derivative, exhibits a fascinating range of applications and properties in the realm of chemistry.

1. Natural Occurrence

This compound is an important derivative of citric acid, a naturally occurring organic acid found abundantly in citrus fruits. Its presence in food items provides a tangy flavor and acts as a natural preservative.

2. Chemical Behavior

Being a tricarboxylic acid, 3-hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylate demonstrates the following key behaviors:

  • Acid-Base Reactions: It plays an essential role in buffering and stabilizing pH levels in biological systems.
  • Complexation: The multiple carboxyl groups allow for the formation of complexes with metal ions, making it useful in various analytical applications.
  • Intermediary Role: It serves as an intermediate in many biochemical pathways, especially in metabolism.

3. Biological Importance

This compound is critical in cellular respiration and energy production as it is part of the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), which is central to aerobic metabolism. In this cycle, it assists in:

  • Converting carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into carbon dioxide and water.
  • Generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is pivotal for energy transfer within cells.

4. Industrial Applications

3-Hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylate finds diverse applications in various industries:

  • Food Industry: Used as a flavoring agent and preservative.
  • Pharmaceuticals: Functions in drug formulation due to its stabilizing properties.
  • Agriculture: It can be utilized as a biodegradable chelating agent to enhance nutrient availability in soil.

In summary, 3-hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylate encapsulates a range of intriguing features that make it a compound of interest, not just for chemists but also for biologists and industrial experts alike. Its profound impact on both biological systems and industrial processes cannot be overstated.