The spelling of the word "D mannitol" is based on the chemical compound it represents. The "D" prefix indicates that the molecule is in the D-configuration (as opposed to the L-configuration), while "mannitol" refers to the sugar alcohol compound. The pronunciation is /diː ˈmænɪtɒl/, with emphasis on the first syllable and the "t" being pronounced as a "t" rather than a "th" sound. Phonetic transcription helps to accurately convey the pronunciation of scientific terms and make them easier to understand for non-experts.
D-mannitol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol, chemically known as hexahydroxyhexane. It is often referred to as a sugar substitute or a sugar alcohol due to its sweet taste and chemical structure similar to glucose. The "D" prefix signifies its classification as a D-isomer, which means that it is the stereochemical mirror image of L-mannitol.
In its pure crystal form, D-mannitol appears as white, odorless, crystalline solid with a sweet taste that is approximately half as sweet as sucrose. It is highly soluble in water and has a melting point of approximately 166°C. D-mannitol is commonly utilized as a dietary supplement and a low-calorie sweetener in food and pharmaceutical industries.
D-mannitol exhibits various properties that make it valuable in different applications. It is known for its ability to retain moisture, acting as a humectant, which makes it useful in skincare and cosmetic products. Additionally, D-mannitol functions as a bulking agent, a stabilizer, and a texturizer in food manufacturing, enhancing the texture and mouthfeel of products.
Furthermore, D-mannitol has therapeutic applications and is used as an osmotic diuretic to increase urine production, particularly in medical treatments affecting the brain, kidneys, or eyes. Its non-toxic nature and minimal metabolism in the body contribute to its popularity in pharmaceutical formulations.
Overall, D-mannitol serves a versatile role in various industries, offering sweetness, stability, and physiological effects to a wide range of products.
The word "mannitol" is derived from "mannose", the sugar it is derived from, and the "-ol" suffix, which indicates it is an alcohol. The "D" in "D-mannitol" refers to the configuration of the molecule, indicating that it is the D-isomer of mannitol.