Overview

Citric acid (SIT-rik AS-id) is also known as 2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid and β-hydroxytricarballylic acid. It is a common constituent of plant and animal tissues. Its presence is especially noticeable in citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, oranges, tangerines, grapefruits, and kumquat, which get their name from the acid. In pure form, citric acid is a colorless, translucent, odorless crystalline or powdery material with a pleasantly acidic taste. It frequently occurs as the monohydrate, with a single molecule of water associated with each citric acid molecule. The formula for the monohydrate is HOOCCH₂C(OH)(COOH)CH₂COOH·H₂O. The monohydrate is efflorescent, meaning that it tends to lose its water of hydration when exposed to the air.

Key Facts

Other Names:

See Overview.

Formula:

HOOCCH₂C(OH) (COOH)CH₂COOH

Elements:

Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen

Compound Type:

Carboxylic acid (organic)

State:

Solid

Molecular Weight:

192.12 g...