The word "Mannite" is spelled with a double "n" to reflect the presence of two nitrogen atoms in its chemical structure. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈmænaɪt/, with stress on the second syllable. It is a white crystalline substance used in food and pharmaceutical industries as a sugar substitute or a laxative. Mannite can also be found naturally in fruits and vegetables, such as apples, mushrooms, and seaweed. As with many chemical names, correct spelling and pronunciation are important for accurate communication in scientific contexts.
Mannite, also known as D-mannitol, is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol derived from various fruits and plants. It is classified as a hexahydric alcohol and belongs to the polyol group of compounds.
In its pure form, mannite appears as a white, crystalline powder, which is sweet-tasting and easily soluble in water. It is widely used as a sweetener in food and beverage industries due to its low-calorie content and relative sweetness compared to regular sugar. Mannite is commonly found in confectionery products, chewing gums, baked goods, and sugar-free candies. Its sweetening properties make it an ideal alternative for individuals with dietary restrictions, including those with diabetes, as it does not significantly affect blood glucose levels.
Apart from its uses in the food industry, mannite also possesses pharmaceutical and medical applications. It is often utilized as an additive in medications to improve the taste and stability of oral formulations. Furthermore, it is known for its osmotic properties, making it suitable for reducing intracranial pressure in certain medical conditions. Mannite can also be utilized in diagnostic procedures such as detecting bacterial growth in microbiology laboratories.
In summary, mannite is a sugar alcohol sweetener derived from plants and fruits. It is widely used in the food industry as a low-calorie and sweetening agent, and is also employed in pharmaceutical and medical applications due to its taste-enhancing properties and osmotic characteristics.
Manna sugar, C6H14O6, a white crystalline substance, of sweet taste, obtained from manna; laxative in doses of 3 1/2-1(15.0-30.0).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• The peculiar variety of sugar which exists in manna.
• See manna.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "mannite" is derived from the German term "Mannit", which itself originates from "Mannose", a type of sugar. "Mannose" was named after the German chemist, pharmacist, and doctor, Professor Reinhold von Mann (1844–1906), who first isolated it in 1890. The suffix "-ite" is commonly used in chemistry to denote a specific compound or substance. Therefore, "mannite" refers to the substance that is derived from mannitol, a sugar alcohol that has similar properties to mannose.