Malic acid
Malic Acid
Malic acid (/ˈmeɪlɪk/; from Latin malum, meaning 'apple') is a dicarboxylic acid with the chemical formula C4H6O5. It is a naturally occurring substance found in various fruits and vegetables, most notably apples, from which it derives its name.
Etymology
The term "malic acid" comes from the Latin word malum, which means apple. This is because malic acid was first isolated from apple juice by Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele in 1785.
Chemical Structure and Properties
Malic acid is a dicarboxylic acid, meaning it has two carboxyl groups (-COOH). Its chemical formula is C4H6O5. It is a chiral molecule, with two stereoisomeric forms (L- and D-enantiomers) that are mirror images of each other. The naturally occurring form is the L-isomer.
Biological Role
In biological systems, L-malic acid is an intermediate in the citric acid cycle, a key pathway in cellular respiration where energy is produced from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Uses
Malic acid is used in the food and beverage industry as a flavor enhancer, preservative, and antioxidant. It is also used in cosmetics for its exfoliating properties, and in pharmaceuticals as an excipient.
Related Terms
- Citric Acid Cycle: The series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to release stored energy.
- L-Malic Acid: The naturally occurring isomer of malic acid.
- D-Malic Acid: The synthetic isomer of malic acid.
- Dicarboxylic Acid: An organic compound containing two carboxyl groups.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Malic acid
- Wikipedia's article - Malic acid
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