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Benzoic acid - Reciprocal Net Common Molecule Log in
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Benzoic acid

Benzoic acid occurs as white needle shaped crystals found naturally in gum benzoin.

Chemical Formula: C7H6O2
Layman's explanation: Benzoic acid is a medium-strong acid found in human foods such as berries, and is used as a plasticizer, insecticide, fungicide, an antifungal agent and in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals. It is more hydrophobic, water fearing, in comparison with other carboxylic acids and therefore can be extracted easily from all types of solvents. This acid is slightly soluble in water and has a melting point of 122 degrees Celsius. Benzoic acid is industrially manufactured from toluene, benzotrichloride and phthalic anyhydride. It is purified by the process of sublimation, and the extremely pure form is used as a titrimetric and calorimetric standard in analytical chemistry.
Keywords: plasticizer, benzoin, acid, insecticide, fungicide

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