What is Malic Acid?
Malic acid or C4H6O5 is a naturally occurring organic acid commonly found in fruits and vegetables such as apples, pears, and grapes. It has a tart taste and is used as a food additive for flavor and as a preservative. Malic acid is also used in skincare products for its ability to exfoliate and brighten the skin.
| IUPAC Name | 2-Hydroxybutanedioic acid |
| Molecular Formula | C4H6O5 |
| CAS Number | 6915-15-7 |
| Synonyms | Hydroxysuccinic acid, Malate, (S)-Malic acid |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C4H6O5/c5-3(6)1-2-4(7)8/h1-2,5-7H2,(H,8,7) |
Malate
Malic acid forms an ionic salt, called malate, when combined with a positively charged ion such as sodium (Na+) or potassium (K+). Malate plays a crucial role in several metabolic processes, including energy production in the body and pH regulation in plant cells. It acts as an important intermediate in the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, which generates energy in the form of ATP. The food industry uses malate as a flavor enhancer and the cosmetic industry uses it as an exfoliant.
Malic Acid Properties
Malic Acid Formula
The chemical formula of malic acid is C4H6O5. This formula represents the number and type of atoms present in the molecule of malic acid. The four carbon atoms are represented by C4, the six hydrogen atoms by H6, and the five oxygen atoms by O5. The chemical formula is an important tool for understanding the composition and properties of a substance, and for writing chemical reactions.
Malic Acid Pka
The pKa of malic acid is 3.4. The pKa is a measure of the acidity of a substance and is defined as the negative logarithm of the dissociation constant (Ka) of the acid. The pKa indicates the strength of an acid, with a lower pKa value indicating a stronger acid. For malic acid, a pKa of 3.4 indicates that it is a weak acid, meaning that it partially dissociates in water to form H+ ions and negatively charged malic acid molecules (C4H5O4-). The pKa of malic acid can be used to predict its behavior in different chemical reactions and to determine the pH of a solution containing malic acid.
Malic Acid Molar Mass
The molar mass of MA is 134.08 g/mol. It is calculated by adding up the atomic masses of all the elements present in the molecular formula of MA, which is C4H6O5. The molar mass is an important value in determining the amount of substance in a sample. Knowing the molar mass helps in converting between the mass of a sample and its number of moles, which is essential in many chemical reactions and calculations.
Malic Acid Structure
Malic acid has a molecular formula of C4H6O5 and is a carboxylic acid composed of a chain of four carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms, and five oxygen atoms. The molecule has a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the second carbon atom and a carboxyl group (-COOH) attached to the fourth carbon atom. This structure gives malic acid its acidic properties and makes it highly soluble in water.
Malic Acid Boiling Point
The boiling point of C4H6O5 is around 318°C (604°F). It is the temperature at which the vapor pressure of the liquid equals the atmospheric pressure, causing the liquid to boil. The boiling point of a substance depends on its molecular weight, intermolecular forces, and the nature of its bonds. In general, as the molecular weight of a substance increases, so does its boiling point.
Malic Acid Melting Point
The melting point of C4H6O5 is around 135-139°C (275-282°F). It is the temperature at which a solid substance changes its state to a liquid. The melting point of a substance is dependent on the nature of its bonds, the degree of association between the molecules, and its molecular weight.
Malic Acid Density g/ml
The density of C4H6O5 is around 1.58 g/mL. Density is a measure of the mass per unit volume of a substance and is an important property in determining its behavior in different conditions. The density of C4H6O5 varies with temperature and pressure, but its value at standard conditions is commonly used in various applications.
Malic Acid Molecular Weight
To calculate the molecular weight of C4H6O5, add up the atomic weights of all elements in its molecular formula, C4H6O5. The result is 134.08 g/mol. This molecular weight plays a crucial role in determining the properties of the substance and is widely used in various calculations in chemistry.
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Specific Gravity | 1.58 g/mL |
| Color | White |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | 134.08 g/mol |
| Density | 1.58 g/mL |
| Melting Point | 135-139°C (275-282°F) |
| Boiling Point | 318°C (604°F) |
| Flash Point | 203°C |
| Water Solubility | Highly soluble in water |
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol and glycerol |
| Vapour Pressure | N/A |
| Vapour Density | N/A |
| pKa | 3.4 |
| pH | 2-3 (in solution) |
Malic Acid Safety and Hazards
Handle C4H6O5 with caution to prevent potential health hazards. Store it in a cool, dry place away from heat sources. Wear gloves and protective eye wear when handling the substance. Avoid skin contact and inhaling the dust. If you experience skin irritation, discontinue use immediately. Limit your ingestion of C4H6O5 to prevent gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If inhaling the powder form of C4H6O5, it may irritate your respiratory system. Follow proper safety procedures when using malic acid to ensure its safe use.
| Hazard Symbols | N/A |
| Safety Description | S26, S36/37/39 |
| UN IDs | N/A |
| HS Code | 2918.90.90 |
| Hazard Class | N/A |
| Packing Group | N/A |
| Toxicity | Oral LD50 (rat) > 5,000 mg/kg |
Note: The information in the table is based on common industry standards and regulations and may vary depending on the specific use and handling of C4H6O5. Always refer to the safety data sheet (SDS) for detailed information on the hazards, handling, and storage of the substance.
Malic Acid Synthesis Methods
Several methods, including chemical and biological processes, can synthesize C4H6O5.
In the chemical synthesis method, you can oxidize either tartronic acid or malonic acid. First, convert the intermediate to tartronic acid and then subject it to oxidative conditions using a suitable oxidizing agent such as potassium permanganate or hydrogen peroxide. Finally, recover the resulting C4H6O5 through crystallization.
For the oxidation of malonic acid, treat malonic acid with an oxidizing agent such as chromium trioxide to produce C4H6O5. This method typically takes place in an aqueous solution and can be carried out under mild conditions.
In the biological synthesis method, microorganisms such as yeast or bacteria produce malic acid through fermentation in a suitable nutrient medium. Another method, biotransformation, uses enzymes to catalyze the formation of C4H6O5 from precursors such as malonyl-CoA or pyruvate.
The choice of synthesis method depends on the specific application and desired outcome. For example, chemical synthesis methods may be suitable for large-scale production of C4H6O5, while biological methods may be preferred for production from renewable feedstocks.
Malic Acid Uses
MA is a versatile substance with a wide range of uses across several industries. Some of the key uses of C4H6O5 are:
- The food and beverage industry widely uses C4H6O5 as a food acidulant and flavor enhancer, especially in fruit-flavored drinks and candies. It adjusts pH levels in food and beverage products, making it a crucial ingredient in the manufacture of jams, jellies, and fruit juices.
- In cosmetics and personal care products, C4H6O5 exfoliates the skin, removes dead skin cells, and leaves the skin feeling smooth and refreshed. It is an ingredient in skin care products, shampoos, and conditioners.
- Pharmaceutical companies use C4H6O5 in the manufacture of antacids to treat heartburn and indigestion.
- The agricultural industry employs C4H6O5 in the production of fertilizers and plant growth regulators and as a pesticide and herbicide to control the growth and spread of pests and weeds.
- Industries use C4H6O5 as a cleaning agent for metal surfaces, textiles, and glass, and as a corrosion inhibitor in the metal industry.
In conclusion, C4H6O5 has a wide range of uses across several industries and has proven to be an important ingredient in the manufacture of a variety of products. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a valuable substance in various applications.
Questions:
Q: Malic acid benefits?
A: C4H6O5 has several potential health benefits, including:
- C4H6O5 improves energy production by participating in the generation of energy in the body, reducing fatigue and increasing energy levels.
- Studies have demonstrated that C4H6O5 supplementation reduces muscle pain and enhances athletic performance.
- Skin care products that contain C4H6O5 effectively exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and improving skin texture.
- Regulating pH levels in the gut, C4H6O5 promotes digestive health and prevents indigestion and heartburn.
- Tooth whitening products that include C4H6O5 effectively remove surface stains from teeth, supporting oral health.
It’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the health benefits of C4H6O5 and to establish safe and effective doses for use. Additionally, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Q: What is malic acid used for?
A: MA is a naturally occurring organic acid commonly used as a food acidulant and flavor enhancer, particularly in fruit-flavored drinks and candies. It is also used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, industrial cleaning products, and in some agricultural products as a fertilizer and growth regulator. Additionally, it may have potential health benefits such as improving energy production, reducing muscle pain, promoting skin health, and supporting digestive and oral health.
Q: What are the benefits of malic acid?
A: MA can aid in energy production, support muscle function, promote oral health, and act as an antioxidant in the body.
Q: What is malic acid?
A: MA is a naturally occurring organic acid found in fruits, known for its tart taste and sour flavor.
Q: What is malic acid used for?
A: MA is used as a food additive for flavor enhancement, in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, as a cleaning agent, and in industrial processes.
Q: Is malic acid bad for you?
A: MA is generally safe for consumption. However, excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
Q: What is the most common acid added to food: citric acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, or proprionic acid?
A: Citric acid is the most common acid added to food, known for its sour taste and versatile applications.
Q: How much malic acid is in apple cider vinegar?
A: Apple cider vinegar typically contains about 0.1-0.4% MA, contributing to its characteristic taste.
Q: Is malic acid a preservative?
A: MA is not primarily used as a preservative, but it can contribute to the preservation of certain food and cosmetic products.
Q: Where can I buy malic acid powder?
A: MA powder can be purchased from various online retailers, specialty food stores, or chemical supply companies.
Q: Where can I buy malic acid?
A: MA can be purchased from online retailers, health food stores, or chemical suppliers, both in physical stores and through online platforms.