PROPIONIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Propionic acid is a carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C3H6COOH. It is a clear, colorless liquid that has a strong, unpleasant odor. Propionic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in various sources such as certain types of bacteria, dairy products, and some types of cultivated plants. It can also be produced synthetically through chemical processes.
In terms of its chemical properties, propionic acid is a weak acid, meaning it does not completely dissociate in water. It readily reacts with bases to form salts known as propionates. It is also known for its volatility and ability to form azeotropic mixtures with water, which can complicate its separation from other substances.
Propionic acid has various industrial applications due to its unique properties. It can be used as a preservative in food and animal feed, where it inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi. Additionally, it is employed as a precursor in the production of various chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, solvents, plastics, and pesticides.
In terms of its health effects, propionic acid is generally recognized as safe and is used as a food additive. However, exposure to high concentrations of this acid can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Inhalation or ingestion of large amounts may lead to headache, nausea, and vomiting.
Overall, propionic acid plays a crucial role in different industries and has both beneficial and potentially harmful effects depending on its concentration and exposure.
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Methyl acetic acid, ethylcarbonic acid, C3H6O2, a clear colorless liquid with an odor recalling that of butyric and of acetic acid, found in sweat.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PROPIONIC ACID
- oropionic acid
- lropionic acid
- 0ropionic acid
- peopionic acid
- pdopionic acid
- pfopionic acid
- ptopionic acid
- p5opionic acid
- p4opionic acid
- pripionic acid
- prkpionic acid
- prlpionic acid
- prppionic acid
- pr0pionic acid
- pr9pionic acid
- prooionic acid
- prolionic acid
- pro-ionic acid
Etymology of PROPIONIC ACID
The word "propionic" derives from the combination of two words: "propion" and "ic acid".
The term "propion" comes from the Greek word "propiōn", which means "shorter" or "smaller". This refers to the fact that propionic acid is a simple carboxylic acid composed of three carbon atoms, making it one of the shortest carboxylic acids.
The suffix "-ic" is commonly used to name carboxylic acids, indicating that it is the acid form of a compound. Hence, by combining "propion" with "-ic acid", we get "propionic acid".
Similar spelling words for PROPIONIC ACID
- (R)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)propanoic acid,
- parabanic acid,
- (2S)-2-(6-methoxynaphthalen-2-yl)propanoic acid,
- Propenoic Acid,
- 2-[4-[5-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-2-yl]oxyphenoxy]propanoic acid,
- Propanoic Acid,
- propionic-acid applicator,
- 2-[4-(6-chloroquinoxalin-2-yl)oxyphenoxy]propanoic acid,
- 2-(4-chloro-2-methyl-phenoxy)propanoic acid.
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