LACTIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Lactic acid is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C3H6O3. It is a type of organic acid that belongs to the carboxylic acid family. Lactic acid is naturally produced in the muscles and various other tissues of animals and humans during intense physical activities as a result of anaerobic metabolism. It is also found in certain microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and some plants.
The compound is colorless and has a sour taste, similar to that of vinegar. Lactic acid is most commonly known for its role in the process of fermentation, particularly in the production of dairy products and pickled vegetables. It plays a key role in converting lactose, a sugar present in milk, into lactic acid through the action of bacteria.
In biochemical terms, lactic acid is an important intermediate metabolite in various physiological processes. It serves as a source of energy, as well as a precursor for the synthesis of other compounds, such as glucose, in what is known as the Cori cycle. Additionally, lactic acid is involved in the regulation of the body's pH balance and is a vital component in the maintenance of the acid-base equilibrium.
In the field of medicine, lactic acid has diagnostic relevance, as its buildup in the blood and tissues can indicate certain medical conditions, including lactic acidosis. Lactic acidosis occurs when the body produces too much lactic acid or struggles to metabolize it effectively, leading to an imbalance in the body's acidity levels.
Common Misspellings for LACTIC ACID
- kactic acid
- pactic acid
- oactic acid
- lzctic acid
- lsctic acid
- lwctic acid
- lqctic acid
- laxtic acid
- lavtic acid
- laftic acid
- ladtic acid
- lacric acid
- lacfic acid
- lacgic acid
- lacyic acid
- lac6ic acid
- lac5ic acid
- lactuc acid
- lactjc acid
Etymology of LACTIC ACID
The word "lactic" comes from the Latin term "lactis", which means "milk". It is derived from the root word "lac", meaning "milk". The word "acid" originates from the Latin term "acidus", which signifies "sour". When combined, "lactic acid" refers to a sour substance commonly found in milk.
Similar spelling word for LACTIC ACID
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