Tartrate is a chemical term that refers to a salt or an ester of tartaric acid. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /ˈtɑrtreɪt/. The first syllable is pronounced with an open back unrounded vowel (ɑ). The second syllable begins with a voiceless alveolar fricative (t) followed by a vowel similar to the diphthong in "say" (/reɪ/). The spelling confusion arises from the silent "e" at the end of the word. However, the correct pronunciation emphasizes the final syllable, making the "e" silent.
Tartrate refers to a chemical compound that contains the tartrate ion (C4H4O6^2-), which is derived from tartaric acid. Tartaric acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in various fruits such as grapes and bananas, as well as in wine. Tartrate compounds are commonly used in the food and beverage industry for their ability to contribute to acidity, act as a leavening agent, and enhance the flavor and texture of certain products.
In addition to their culinary applications, tartrate compounds are also used in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and cleaning products. They are often added to medications as an ingredient or to adjust the pH level of certain formulations. Tartrates can also be used in cosmetic products as stabilizers or emulsifiers, helping to improve texture and prevent separation.
Furthermore, tartrate has an important role in the wine industry. Tartrate crystals, also known as wine diamonds, can form in wine during the winemaking process or during storage. These crystals are harmless but may be undesirable to consumers. Winemakers often use tartrate stabilization techniques, such as cold stabilization or the addition of substances like potassium bitartrate, to remove these crystals and prevent their formation.
Overall, tartrate is a versatile chemical compound with wide-ranging applications, including its use as a food additive, a pharmaceutical ingredient, a cosmetic stabilizer, and an essential tool in the winemaking process.
A salt of tartaric acid; cream of tartar, the tartar from wines and fruit.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tartrate" derives from the acid salt of tartaric acid, which is a crystalline organic compound commonly found in grapes. The term "tartrate" comes directly from the Latin word "tartarum", meaning tartar, possibly referring to the acidic taste of the substance. Tartaric acid, in turn, gets its name from the Medieval Latin word "tartarum" or "tartar", which originally referred to the crust that forms during the fermentation of wine. Over time, "tartrate" has emerged as the name for compounds and salts related to tartaric acid.