What Is the Melting Point of Citric Acid?
In its dry or anhydrous form, citric acid is an odorless white crystalline powder sometimes used in science experiments. In nature, citric acid is found not only in citrus fruits, but also in most plants and animals as a compound that breaks down proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
Other People Are Reading
-
Melting Point
-
Anhydrous citric acid will melt when it reaches a temperature of 153 degrees Celsius, which is 307.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
Boiling Point And Decomposition
-
Citric acid will not sustain a boiling point because the boiling point and the decomposition temperature for citric acid is the same, according to the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It will decompose if heated above 175 degrees Celsius, at which point water and carbon dioxide molecules release themselves from the citric acid.
-
Chemical Composition
-
The chemical formula of citric acid is C6H8O7 and it has a molecular weight of 192.12 grams per mole. When it is dissolved in water to make a citric acid solution, it is classified as a medium to strong acid.
Uses
-
Citric acid is often used as a preservative in foods and as a flavoring in citrus-flavored beverages and candies. It is also an ingredient in some cleaning products.
Safety
-
When working with citric acid in either its anhydrous form or dissolved in water, it is important to take safety precautions such as wearing goggles and protective gloves. If citric acid comes into contact with the body, the area should be washed immediately.
-
References
- Photo Credit vitamin c image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com
