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Citric acid

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

At room temperature, citric acid is a solid. It is often available in monohydrate form which crystallizes from cold water. It readily dissolves in water, making it useful in a range of aqueous solutions.

Melting point (Celsius)
153.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
426.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
310.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
583.00
General information
Molecular weight
192.13g/mol
Molar mass
192.1250g/mol
Density
1.6650g/cm3
Appearence

Citric acid is typically a colorless crystalline solid at room temperature. It is odorless and has a strong acidic taste. The compound is efflorescent in dry air and deliquescent in moist air which means it can absorb moisture from the environment leading to partial dissolution. It is commonly found in a powdered form, which is granular or fine and white. When dissolved in water, it forms a clear, colorless solution.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid (C6H8O7)

3-hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, commonly known as citric acid, exhibits significant solubility in various solvents, making it an important compound in both industrial and biological applications.

Key Characteristics of Solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Citric acid is highly soluble in water, with solubility reaching approximately 60 g/100 mL at room temperature. This property facilitates its use in aqueous solutions, such as food and beverage applications.
  • Polar Solvents: Due to its multiple carboxylic acid groups, citric acid is compatible with polar solvents like ethanol and methanol, enhancing its versatility for various formulations.
  • Temperature Influence: The solubility of citric acid tends to increase with temperature, making hot water or warm solvents more effective for dissolving the compound.
  • pH Dependence: The solubility can also be influenced by the pH of the solution. In lower pH environments, more protons are available, which can enhance the dissociation of citric acid and improve solubility.

As a result of these characteristics, citric acid is not only soluble but is often utilized as a pH regulator and chelating agent in various chemical processes.

Overall, the exceptional solubility of C6H8O7 in different solvents makes it a critical component in many formulations, enabling it to function effectively in applications ranging from food preservation to industrial manufacturing.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3-Hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid

3-Hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, commonly known as citric acid, is not only a vital organic compound but also a significant player in various biochemical processes. Here are some intriguing aspects of this remarkable molecule:

  • Energy Production: Citric acid plays a pivotal role in the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), which is crucial for generating energy in aerobic organisms. This metabolic pathway enables cells to convert carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy.
  • Natural Preservative: Due to its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, citric acid is widely used as a preservative in food and beverages, enhancing shelf life and maintaining flavor.
  • Citrus Fruits: As the name suggests, citric acid is predominantly found in citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges. Its distinct sour taste is a characteristic feature of these fruits, making them popular in culinary uses.
  • pH Regulation: Citric acid acts as an effective pH stabilizer. In both food products and cosmetics, it is employed to regulate acidity levels, ensuring the stability and effectiveness of various formulations.
  • Health Benefits: The compound is more than just a food additive. It is known to aid in the absorption of minerals in the body, supporting overall health and digestion.
  • Environmental Impact: Being biodegradable, citric acid is considered an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic chemicals, making it a preferred choice in many cleaning products.

In summary, 3-hydroxyprop-1-ene-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is more than just a simple compound—it influences biological energy pathways, acts as a natural preservative, and serves various purposes in food and cosmetics. As scientists continue to explore its full potential, the applications of citric acid continue to expand.

Synonyms
PD040312