Ascorbic acid (C6H8O6) is a vitamin found in various fruits and vegetables. It helps the body in the absorption of iron, boosts the immune system, and promotes collagen production for healthy skin.
| IUPAC Name | (5R)-[(1S)-1,2-dihydroxyethyl]-3,4-dihydroxyfuran-2(5H)-one |
| Molecular Formula | C6H8O6 |
| CAS Number | 50-81-7 |
| Synonyms | Vitamin C, L-ascorbic acid, 3-keto-L-gulofuranolactone, antiscorbutic vitamin, L-ascorbate |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C6H8O6/c7-1-2(8)5-3(9)4(10)6(11)12-5/h2,5,7-10H,1H2 |
Ascorbic Acid Properties
Ascorbic Acid Formula
The formula of ascorbic acid is C6H8O6. It consists of six carbon atoms, eight hydrogen atoms, and six oxygen atoms. This molecular formula represents the specific arrangement and quantity of atoms in a molecule of ascorbic acid.
Ascorbic Acid Molar Mass
The molar mass of L-ascorbate is approximately 176.12 grams per mole. Molar mass refers to the mass of one mole of a substance and is calculated by adding up the atomic masses of all the atoms in the formula.
Ascorbic Acid Boiling Point
The boiling point of L-ascorbate is about 553 degrees Celsius (1027 degrees Fahrenheit). It is the temperature at which the liquid form of L-ascorbate changes into a gas phase by overcoming the intermolecular forces holding the molecules together.
Ascorbic Acid Melting Point
The melting point of L-ascorbate is around 190 to 192 degrees Celsius (374 to 378 degrees Fahrenheit). This is the temperature at which the solid form of L-ascorbate transforms into a liquid state due to the breaking of intermolecular bonds.
Ascorbic Acid Density g/mL
The density of L-ascorbate is approximately 1.65 grams per milliliter. Density represents the mass of a substance per unit volume and is a measure of how closely packed the molecules are within a given space.
Ascorbic Acid Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of L-ascorbate is about 176.12 grams per mole. Molecular weight, also known as molecular mass, refers to the sum of the atomic weights of all the atoms in a molecule.
Ascorbic Acid Structure
L-ascorbate has a cyclic structure known as a lactone. It consists of a five-membered ring with a double bond and a six-membered ring. The molecule also contains hydroxyl groups (-OH) and a carbonyl group (C=O), which contribute to its chemical properties.
Ascorbic Acid Solubility
L-ascorbate is highly soluble in water. It readily dissolves in water due to the presence of hydrophilic (-OH) groups in its structure, allowing it to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. This solubility makes it easy for the body to absorb and utilize L-ascorbate when ingested.
| Appearance | White crystals |
| Specific Gravity | 1.65 g/mL |
| Color | White |
| Odor | Odorless or faint |
| Molar Mass | 176.12 g/mol |
| Density | 1.65 g/mL |
| Melting Point | 190-192 °C (374-378 °F) |
| Boiling Point | 553 °C (1027 °F) |
| Flash Point | N/A |
| Water Solubility | Highly soluble |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, ethanol |
| Vapour Pressure | 0.000087 mmHg |
| Vapour Density | N/A |
| pKa | 4.17 (at 25°C) |
| pH | 2.2-2.8 (5% solution) |
Ascorbic Acid Safety and Hazards
L-ascorbate is generally considered safe for consumption and use when used as directed. However, excessive intake of L-ascorbate in supplement form may lead to digestive issues, such as diarrhea or stomach cramps. It is important to follow recommended dosage guidelines. In rare cases, allergic reactions may occur, causing symptoms like rash, itching, or difficulty breathing. When handling concentrated L-ascorbate powder, it is advisable to wear protective gloves and avoid inhalation of the powder to prevent irritation. L-ascorbate should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and kept out of reach of children.
| Hazard Symbols | None |
| Safety Description | Harmful if swallowed. Causes mild skin and eye irritation. Avoid inhalation. |
| UN IDs | N/A |
| HS Code | 29362700 |
| Hazard Class | Not classified |
| Packing Group | Not classified |
| Toxicity | Low toxicity. However, excessive intake may cause digestive issues. |
Please note that L-ascorbate is generally regarded as safe for consumption and does not carry any specific hazard symbols, UN IDs, hazard class, or packing group classification.
Ascorbic Acid Synthesis Methods
In the first step, the conversion of sorbitol synthesizes L-sorbose.
The Reichstein process synthesizes L-ascorbate by subjecting D-glucose to catalytic hydrogenation, resulting in the conversion of D-glucose to D-sorbitol. A microbial fermentation process then oxidizes D-sorbitol to L-sorbose. Subsequent chemical reactions transform L-sorbose into 2-keto-L-gulonic acid. Finally, a reduction process converts 2-keto-L-gulonic acid to L-ascorbate.
The Reichstein-Grüssner process provides a more efficient and cost-effective method for synthesizing L-ascorbate from D-glucose. This process involves a series of oxidation, isomerization, and reduction reactions that ultimately yield L-ascorbate.
Another two-step method utilizes sorbitol as the starting material. In the second step, a reduction reaction converts L-sorbose into L-ascorbate to synthesize it.
It is important to note that although L-ascorbate can be synthesized, it is also naturally present in various fruits and vegetables, making it readily available through dietary sources.
Ascorbic Acid Uses
- L-ascorbate, also known as vitamin C, widely contributes to maintaining overall health and well-being.
- People use it primarily as a dietary supplement to prevent or treat vitamin C deficiency, which can cause conditions like scurvy.
- As a powerful antioxidant, L-ascorbate protects cells from free radical damage, thereby bolstering the immune system’s health.
- It plays a crucial role in synthesizing collagen, promoting healthy skin, aiding wound healing, and maintaining connective tissue health.
- L-ascorbate assists in the absorption of iron from plant-based foods, improving iron deficiency anemia.
- Manufacturers commonly add it to food as an antioxidant to prevent oxidation and prolong the shelf life of various products.
- Cosmetics and skincare products incorporate L-ascorbate for its skin brightening and anti-aging properties.
- Some beverages and foods contain added L-ascorbate to enhance their vitamin C content and provide nutritional benefits.
- The pharmaceutical industry uses L-ascorbate as an ingredient in formulating medications and supplements.
Overall, L-ascorbate plays a vital role in various sectors, including healthcare, nutrition, cosmetics, and food industries, owing to its numerous beneficial properties and applications.
Questions:
Q: Is citric acid and ascorbic acid the same?
A: No, citric acid and L-ascorbate are different compounds with distinct chemical structures and properties.
Q: Which vitamin is known as ascorbic acid?
A: Vitamin C is known as L-ascorbate.
Q: What is ascorbic acid used for?
A: L-ascorbate is used for various purposes, including dietary supplementation, antioxidant protection, collagen synthesis, and enhancing iron absorption.
Q: Are citric acid and ascorbic acid the same?
A: No, citric acid and L-ascorbate are different compounds with distinct chemical structures and properties.
Q: What is the empirical formula of ascorbic acid, given that the pseudoformula is c3.407h4.53o3.406?
A: The empirical formula of L-ascorbate is C6H8O6.
Q: Which H atom in vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is most acidic? Select the single best answer.
A: The H atom on the carboxyl group (–COOH) of L-ascorbate is most acidic.
Q: Is ascorbic acid bad for you?
A: L-ascorbate is generally safe for consumption in recommended doses, but excessive intake may lead to digestive issues. Consult a healthcare professional for specific concerns.
Q: What is the pH of ascorbic acid?
A: L-ascorbate has a pH range of approximately 2.2-2.8 in a 5% solution.