Analysis of Benzoic Acid
First discovered in the 16th century, benzoic acid is an organic compound belonging to the family of carboxylic acids. Also referred to as benzenecarboxylic acid and carboxybenzene, benzoic acid is readily produced for food preservation and cosmetic applications.
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Structure
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Benzoic acid is composed of an aromatic ring with a carboxylic group. The specific molecular formula is C7H6O2, or less commonly, C6H5COOH. Benzoic acid has a molecular weight of 122.12 g/mol.
Properties
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Benzoic acid is a white crystalline powder. While tasteless, it is described as having a faint but pleasant odor. Water solubility of benzoic acid is 29 percent at a temperature of 20 degrees C. When saturated in solution, it has a pH of 2.8. Benzoic acid boils at 249 degrees C and melts at approximately 122 degrees C. The density of benzoic acid is 1.3210 g per cubic centimeter.
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Uses
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Benzoic acid is used in food preservatives because of its ability to inhibit the fungal growth on foods. After ingestion, it is converted within the liver to glycine and then excreted as hippuric acid.
According to the Household Products Database of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, benzoic acid is used in household products ranging from toothpastes and mouthwashes to makeup and diaper cream.
Benzoic acid is also used in chemical reactions to synthesize other compounds.
Human Exposure
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The Hazardous Substances Data Bank of the National Library of Medicine classifies benzoic acid as noncarcinogenic to humans. In its powder form, the dust can irritate the nose and eyes, and at increased temperatures, the fumes can irritate the eyes, skin and respiratory system.
Environmental Exposure
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According to the National Library of Medicine's Hazardous Substance Data Bank, benzoic acid is biodegradable on both land and water and therefore poses no significant risk of environmental pollution.
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References
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