OXYBUTYRIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Oxybutyric acid is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C4H8O3, belonging to the class of carboxylic acids. It is commonly referred to as 2-hydroxybutanoic acid or isobutyric acid-2-oxy. Oxybutyric acid is a colorless, odorless, and viscous liquid with a sour taste.
This organic acid is synthesized through the esterification reaction of isobutyric acid with methanol under specific conditions. Oxybutyric acid is commonly used as an intermediate in the production of various substances, including pharmaceuticals, fragrances, and food additives.
One of the significant applications of oxybutyric acid is its use in the synthesis of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), a powerful central nervous system depressant. GHB is produced by reacting oxybutyric acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate. GHB has gained attention due to its illicit use as a recreational drug and its classification as a schedule III controlled substance in several countries.
Oxybutyric acid is also known for its potential in medical applications. Studies have shown that it may possess certain physiological effects, including anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsant properties. However, further research is required to determine the extent of its therapeutic applications.
In conclusion, oxybutyric acid is a chemical compound primarily used as an intermediate in the synthesis of various substances. It has notable applications in the production of drugs and has potential therapeutic uses.
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A monobasic acid, CH3.CHOH.CH2COOH, occasionally found in the blood and urine in diabetes.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for OXYBUTYRIC ACID
- ixybutyric acid
- kxybutyric acid
- lxybutyric acid
- pxybutyric acid
- 0xybutyric acid
- 9xybutyric acid
- ozybutyric acid
- ocybutyric acid
- odybutyric acid
- osybutyric acid
- oxtbutyric acid
- oxgbutyric acid
- oxhbutyric acid
- oxubutyric acid
- ox7butyric acid
- ox6butyric acid
- oxyvutyric acid
- oxynutyric acid
- oxyhutyric acid
Etymology of OXYBUTYRIC ACID
The word "oxybutyric acid" is derived from its chemical composition and structure.
"Oxy" refers to the presence of oxygen in the compound, while "butyric" pertains to its four-carbon chain. "Acid" indicates that it is an acidic compound, capable of donating a proton (H+) in a chemical reaction.
In terms of its specific etymology, "oxybutyric" is a combination of two parts: "oxy-" and "-butyric".
The prefix "oxy-" originates from the Greek word "oxys", meaning "sharp" or "acid". It is often used in chemistry to describe compounds containing oxygen.
The term "butyric" comes from the Latin word "butyrum", which means "butter".
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