Pronunciation: [lˈɔːɹɪk ˈasɪd] (IPA) 
Lauric acid is a fatty acid commonly found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. The spelling of "lauric" is pronounced /ˈlɔːrɪk/ in IPA phonetics, with the "au" representing the /ɔː/ sound and the "r" being pronounced. The word "acid" is spelled as /ˈæsɪd/ in IPA, with the "c" being pronounced as a "k" sound. Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid containing twelve carbon atoms, making it useful in soap and cosmetics production.
Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid that belongs to the medium-chain fatty acid family. It is a solid, white, odorless, and waxy substance with a chemical formula C12H24O2 and a molecular weight of 200.32 g/mol. Lauric acid can be found naturally in various plant and animal fats and oils, including coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and breast milk.
This fatty acid is characterized by its unique structure consisting of a 12-carbon chain with a carboxylic acid functional group at one end. It is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. Lauric acid is commonly used in the production of soaps, detergents, candles, cosmetics, and other personal care products due to its cleansing and moisturizing properties. It also acts as an emulsifier, allowing the mixing of oil and water-based ingredients.
Additionally, lauric acid is known for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which make it an effective ingredient in the preservation of food products and in the treatment of various skin conditions. Its antibacterial effects are attributed to its ability to disrupt the bacterial cell membranes, inhibiting their growth and proliferation.
In summary, lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid with a 12-carbon chain commonly found in natural fats and oils. Its versatility and beneficial properties have led to its wide range of applications in various industries, such as personal care, food, and healthcare.
The word "lauric" in "lauric acid" is derived from the Latin word "laurus", which means "laurel tree". This name was given to the acid because it was first discovered as a major component in laurel oil, which is obtained from the berries of the laurel tree. The term "acid" is used to indicate that it is a type of organic acid.
