Benzoic acid

Benzoic Acid

Benzoic acid (/bɛnˈzoʊ.ɪk/), also known as C7H6O2 or carboxybenzene, is a colorless crystalline solid and a simple aromatic carboxylic acid.

Etymology

The name "benzoic acid" is derived from gum benzoin, from which the acid was first obtained. The term "benzoin" is probably derived from Arabic lubān jāwī (لبان جاوي, "Java frankincense"); the term "benzoin" is also used to refer to several other, less distinct, species of trees and shrubs.

Chemical Properties

Benzoic acid is a weak acid that is a precursor for the synthesis of many important organic compounds. More extensive description of its chemical properties can be found in the Chemical Properties of Benzoic Acid article.

Uses

Benzoic acid is commonly used as a food preservative, represented by the E-numbers E210, E211, E212, and E213. More information about its uses can be found in the Uses of Benzoic Acid article.

Health Effects

Exposure to benzoic acid can cause irritation to the skin and eyes. Ingestion of the acid can lead to various health effects. More information about its health effects can be found in the Health Effects of Benzoic Acid article.

Related Terms

• Carboxylic Acid
• Aromatic Compounds
• Gum Benzoin
• E-numbers
• Food Preservatives

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Benzoic acid
• Wikipedia's article - Benzoic acid

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