Maleic acid is a compound commonly used in the production of various chemicals. It is pronounced as /meɪliːk ˈæsɪd/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, /meɪ/, is pronounced like the word "may". The second syllable, /liːk/, has a long vowel sound and is pronounced like "leak". The final syllable, /ˈæsɪd/, is pronounced like the word "acid". The spelling of maleic acid reflects the origin of its name, which comes from the Latin word for "apple".
Maleic acid is a dicarboxylic acid with the chemical formula C4H4O4. It is a white crystalline solid that is soluble in water and commonly used in various industries and applications. Maleic acid is formed through the hydration of maleic anhydride, by hydrolysis of maleic esters, or as a byproduct of the oxidation of certain hydrocarbons. It is an organic compound with two carboxylic acid groups, which are attached to adjacent carbon atoms in its molecular structure.
Maleic acid finds wide application in the production of various chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, polymers, and agricultural products. It is commonly used as a raw material for the synthesis of fumaric acid, another dicarboxylic acid, which is utilized in the food and beverage industry as an acidulant and flavor enhancer. Maleic acid is also a vital component in the production of resins, adhesives, and coatings, thanks to its ability to react with alkenes, forming polyesters or copolymers.
In the pharmaceutical industry, maleic acid is utilized as an intermediate in the synthesis of certain drugs, including antihistamines and anticancer agents. It can also act as a preservative in cosmetic and personal care products. Besides its industrial applications, maleic acid is sometimes used as a food additive and flavor enhancer, contributing to tartness in various foods and beverages.
Overall, maleic acid demonstrates versatility and significance across multiple industries due to its chemical properties and diverse applications.
The word "maleic" comes from its isolation from maleic anhydride, which was derived from maleic acid. The term "maleic" originates from the Latin word "malum" meaning "apple", as it was first isolated from unripe apples. The suffix "-ic" in "maleic acid" indicates that it is a carboxylic acid.