GLYCERIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Glyceric acid is a colorless, crystalline organic compound with the chemical formula C3H6O4. It is classified as a hydroxy acid due to the presence of a hydroxyl group (-OH) on one of its carbon atoms. Glyceric acid is derived from glycerol, which is a three-carbon alcohol commonly found in various organisms.
In terms of its physical properties, glyceric acid is soluble in water and has a sweet taste. Its melting point is approximately 127 degrees Celsius. Chemically, it is a weak acid and can act as a reducing agent.
Glyceric acid is primarily used in the field of biochemistry and pharmaceutical research. It serves as an intermediate in metabolic pathways involving carbohydrates. In these pathways, glyceric acid participates in energy production and the synthesis of cellular components. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in the synthesis of glucose and glycogen, which are essential for the proper functioning of living organisms.
Glyceric acid can also be found naturally in various fruits and vegetables, such as grapes, apples, and asparagus. Its presence in these food sources contributes to their acidic taste and may have implications for their nutritional value.
The versatility and importance of glyceric acid in both biological and chemical processes make it a significant compound in various scientific studies and applications.
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An acid produced by the action of nitric acid on glycerine.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GLYCERIC ACID
- flyceric acid
- vlyceric acid
- blyceric acid
- hlyceric acid
- ylyceric acid
- tlyceric acid
- gkyceric acid
- gpyceric acid
- goyceric acid
- gltceric acid
- glgceric acid
- glhceric acid
- gluceric acid
- gl7ceric acid
- gl6ceric acid
- glyxeric acid
- glyveric acid
- glyferic acid
- glyderic acid
Etymology of GLYCERIC ACID
The word "glyceric acid" has its etymology rooted in the components it comprises.
The term "glyceric" comes from the word "glycerol", which is a sweet-tasting, colorless, and odorless substance. Glycerol is derived from Greek, where "glykys" means "sweet". Glycerol, or glycerin, is a trihydroxy alcohol that is commonly found in natural fats and oils and is a component of many cosmetics, soaps, and food products.
The word "acid" comes from the Latin "acidus", which means "sour". In chemistry, an acid refers to a substance with a pH level lower than 7, typically resulting in a sour taste when dissolved in water.
Therefore, combining "glyceric" and "acid" in the term "glyceric acid" signifies the presence of an acidic compound derived from glycerol.
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