Valeric acid: Difference between revisions
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{{ | {{short description|An organic compound known as pentanoic acid}} | ||
{{ | {{DISPLAYTITLE:Valeric acid}} | ||
}} | |||
[[File:Valeric_acid_acsv.svg|thumb|right|Structural formula of valeric acid]] | |||
'''Valeric acid''', also known as '''pentanoic acid''', is a straight-chain alkyl carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C<sub>5</sub>H<sub>10</sub>O<sub>2</sub>. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor and is found naturally in the [[Valerian (herb)|valerian plant]]. | |||
Valeric acid is a straight-chain | |||
==Chemical properties== | |||
Valeric acid is a [[carboxylic acid]], which means it contains a carboxyl group (_COOH). It is a weak acid, meaning it does not completely dissociate in water. The acid is soluble in organic solvents and slightly soluble in water. | |||
==Production== | ==Production== | ||
Valeric acid can be produced by the | Valeric acid can be produced by the oxidation of [[valeraldehyde]] or by the hydrolysis of [[valerate esters]]. Industrially, it is often synthesized from [[butyric acid]] through the [[Koch reaction]]. | ||
== | ==Uses== | ||
Valeric acid is used in the | Valeric acid is used in the production of [[esters]] for the flavor and fragrance industry. These esters, such as [[ethyl valerate]], have fruity odors and are used in perfumes and as food additives. Additionally, valeric acid is used as a precursor in the synthesis of [[pharmaceuticals]] and [[pesticides]]. | ||
==Biological role== | |||
In nature, valeric acid is found in the [[Valerian (herb)|valerian plant]], which has been used for centuries as a herbal remedy for its sedative properties. The acid itself is not responsible for the sedative effects, but it is one of the many compounds present in the plant. | |||
==Safety== | ==Safety== | ||
Valeric acid is | Valeric acid is corrosive and can cause skin and eye irritation. It should be handled with care, using appropriate [[personal protective equipment]] such as gloves and goggles. | ||
==Related pages== | ==Related pages== | ||
* [[Valerian (herb)]] | |||
* [[Carboxylic acid]] | * [[Carboxylic acid]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Ester]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Valeraldehyde]] | ||
[[Category:Carboxylic acids]] | [[Category:Carboxylic acids]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Organic compounds]] | ||
Latest revision as of 11:03, 15 February 2025
An organic compound known as pentanoic acid
Valeric acid, also known as pentanoic acid, is a straight-chain alkyl carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C5H10O2. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor and is found naturally in the valerian plant.
Chemical properties[edit]
Valeric acid is a carboxylic acid, which means it contains a carboxyl group (_COOH). It is a weak acid, meaning it does not completely dissociate in water. The acid is soluble in organic solvents and slightly soluble in water.
Production[edit]
Valeric acid can be produced by the oxidation of valeraldehyde or by the hydrolysis of valerate esters. Industrially, it is often synthesized from butyric acid through the Koch reaction.
Uses[edit]
Valeric acid is used in the production of esters for the flavor and fragrance industry. These esters, such as ethyl valerate, have fruity odors and are used in perfumes and as food additives. Additionally, valeric acid is used as a precursor in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and pesticides.
Biological role[edit]
In nature, valeric acid is found in the valerian plant, which has been used for centuries as a herbal remedy for its sedative properties. The acid itself is not responsible for the sedative effects, but it is one of the many compounds present in the plant.
Safety[edit]
Valeric acid is corrosive and can cause skin and eye irritation. It should be handled with care, using appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles.
