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Citric Acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H8O7
CAS number
77-92-9
IUPAC name
citric acid;1,3,7-trimethylpurine-2,6-dione
State
State

At room temperature, citric acid is typically a solid. It is highly soluble in water, forming a clear, colorless solution with a slightly acidic taste.

Melting point (Celsius)
153.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
426.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
310.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
583.15
General information
Molecular weight
192.12g/mol
Molar mass
192.1240g/mol
Density
1.6650g/cm3
Appearence

Citric acid is a white, crystalline powder. It is often found in a colorless or white, semi-translucent granulated form. When exposed to air or humidity, it can absorb moisture, forming a solution due to its hygroscopic nature.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Citric Acid (C6H8O7)

Citric acid is a highly soluble organic acid that is commonly found in citrus fruits. Its solubility characteristics are influenced by several factors:

  • Solvent: Citric acid is readily soluble in water, exhibiting a solubility of approximately 59 g/L at 20°C.
  • Temperature: Increased temperatures enhance solubility, making it more effective in hot solutions.
  • pH levels: The acidic nature of citric acid allows it to ionize in solution, further boosting its solubility in various pH environments.

Furthermore, its strong chelating ability makes it an effective compound in various applications, including food preservation and biochemical processes. As a result, citric acid's solubility plays a crucial role in its functionality and versatility in multiple industries.

Comparative Notions of Solubility

Interestingly, in comparison to many other organic acids, citric acid's solubility is notably high, allowing it to dissolve effortlessly in aqueous environments. Its solubility can be summarized as:

  • Water: Highly soluble
  • Organic solvents: Moderately soluble (depends on the solvent type)

In summary, the solubility of citric acid is a defining attribute that facilitates its multiple roles in chemistry, food science, and nutrition.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Citric Acid and 1,3,7-Trimethylpurine-2,6-dione

Citric acid is a fascinating organic compound that plays a crucial role in both nature and various industrial applications. It is primarily found in citrus fruits, where it contributes to their tart flavor. Here are some interesting aspects of citric acid:

  • Biochemical Significance: Citric acid is a key player in the Krebs cycle, which is essential for cellular respiration in aerobic organisms, aiding in energy production.
  • Preservative Properties: Due to its ability to lower pH and prevent microbial growth, it's commonly used as a natural preservative in the food and beverage industry.
  • Antioxidant Effects: Citric acid has antioxidant properties, helping to prevent the oxidation of food products.
  • pH Regulation: It is used to regulate acidity in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, making it versatile across multiple sectors.

On the other hand, 1,3,7-trimethylpurine-2,6-dione, more widely recognized as caffeine, is one of the most consumed psychoactive substances worldwide. Its stimulating properties have captivated human interest for centuries. Here are some noteworthy points about caffeine:

  • Cognitive Enhancement: Caffeine is renowned for its ability to enhance alertness and improve cognitive function, making it a popular choice for individuals seeking to boost their productivity.
  • Natural Sources: It is naturally found in coffee beans, tea leaves, and cocoa, which has led to a diverse array of beverages enriched with caffeine.
  • Health Benefits: Some studies suggest that moderate caffeine consumption may reduce the risk of certain diseases, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
  • The Science of Tolerance: Regular consumption can lead to caffeine tolerance, affecting its impact and the amount needed to achieve desired effects.

In summary, both citric acid and caffeine are vital compounds that showcase the complexity and utility of organic chemistry in everyday life. Whether it's enhancing flavors or providing a boost in energy, these compounds demonstrate remarkable versatility.

Synonyms
Caffeine citrate
69-22-7
Caffeine, Citrated
Cafcit
Caffeina citrate
Citrated caffein
Caffeine citrated
Citrated caffeine
Caffeine citrate (1:1)
UNII-U26EO4675Q
DTXSID5046938
U26EO4675Q
1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-hydroxy-, mixt. with 3,7-dihydro-1,3,7-trimethyl-1H-purine-2,6-dione
DTXCID3026938
NSC63248
NCGC00015208-09
2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid;1,3,7-trimethylpurine-2,6-dione
CAFFEINE CITRATE (MART.)
CAFFEINE CITRATE [MART.]
3,7-DIHYDRO-1,3,7-TRIMETHYL-1H-PURINE-2,6-DIONE CITRATE
CAFFEINE CITRATE (USP IMPURITY)
CAFFEINE CITRATE [USP IMPURITY]
CAS-69-22-7
1H-PURINE-2,6-DIONE, 3,7-DIHYDRO-1,3,7-TRIMETHYL-, 2-HYDROXYPROPANE-1,2,3-TRICARBOXYLATE
Caffeine, citrated [NF]
Caffeina Citrata
1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-hydroxy-, mixt. with 3,7-dihydro-1,3,7-trimethyl-1H-purine-2,6-dione; Caffeine Citrate; Caffeine citrate (6CI); Caffeine, citrate (1:1) (7CI,8CI); 1H-Purine-2,6-dione, 3,7-dihydro-1,3,7-trimethyl-, mixt. contg. (9CI); Citrated caffeine
Cafcit (TN)
Caffeine citrate (USP)
caffeine-citric acid 1/1
SCHEMBL452067
Caffeine Citrate Oral Solution
CHEMBL1200569
CITRATED CAFFEINE [VANDF]
CAFFEINE CITRATE [WHO-DD]
CAFFEINE CITRATE [EMA EPAR]
Tox21_110099
NSC-63248
AKOS030254796
CAFFEINE CITRATE [ORANGE BOOK]
Tox21_110099_1
FC35311
NCGC00015208-19
DB-055239
D07603
EN300-12576315
Q2974480
1,3,7-trimethyl-1H-purine-2,6(3H,7H)-dione 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate
1,3,7-trimethyl-2,3,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-purine-2,6-dione; 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid
2097117-68-3