Hydantoic acid, /haɪdənˈtoʊɪk ˈæsɪd/, is a chemical compound derived from the hydantoin group. Its spelling is a combination of the word "hydantoin" and the suffix "-ic acid," which indicates the presence of a carboxylic acid functional group. The "h" at the beginning of hydantoic is silent, as evidenced by the IPA transcription. Despite its somewhat complex spelling, hydantoic acid is an important component of many pharmaceutical drugs and organic compounds and is widely studied in chemical research.
Hydantoic acid is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C3H4N2O3. It is a carboxylic acid derivative and belongs to the class of heterocyclic compounds known as hydantoins.
In terms of its physical properties, hydantoic acid appears as a white crystalline powder and is soluble in water. It possesses a slight characteristic odor.
Hydantoic acid is not naturally occurring but can be synthesized in the laboratory. It is primarily used as an intermediate or starting material for the production of various valuable compounds. Its versatile nature allows it to be used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, dyes, and polymers.
From a chemical perspective, hydantoic acid contains a carboxyl group (COOH) and an imide group (CONH). It can act as either a weak acid or a weak base, depending on the environment in which it is present.
Due to its heterocyclic structure, hydantoic acid can undergo various chemical reactions, such as esterification, amidation, and condensation. Its reactivity and ability to form stable compounds make it an essential building block in organic synthesis. However, hydantoic acid should be handled with care, as it can be harmful if ingested, inhaled, or in contact with the skin.
Overall, hydantoic acid is a versatile compound that plays a crucial role in the synthesis of numerous valuable compounds across various industries.
Uramidoacetic acid, glycoluric acid, C3H5N2O3, a derivative of hydantoin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hydantoic acid" is derived from the name of a chemical compound called "hydantoin". The term "hydantoin" was coined by the German chemist Adolf Baeyer in 1861. It is derived from the Greek words "hydor" meaning "water" and "antoos" meaning "flower" or "bloom". The addition of the suffix "-ic acid" indicates the presence of a carboxylic acid functional group (-COOH) in the molecule. Therefore, "hydantoic acid" refers to the acid form of hydantoin.