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Benzoic Acid
Benzoic acid is the simplest member of the aromatic carboxylic acid family. It is a weak acid that is a precursor for the synthesis of many important organic compounds. More than 90 percent of commercial benzoic acid is converted directly to phenol and caprolactam.
Its use in the production of glycol benzoates for the application of plasticizer in adhesive formulations is increasing. The organic compound is also used in the manufacture of alkyd resins and drilling mud additive for crude oil recovery applications. It is also used as a rubber polymerization activator, retardant, resins, alkyd paint, plasticizers, dyestuffs, and fibers. Benzoic acid and its esters occur in apricots, cranberries, mushrooms and jasmine plants.
Uses of Benzoic Acid
Some important uses of C6H5COOH are listed below.
- The production of phenol involves the use of benzoic acid.
- This compound is used in ointments that prevent or treat fungal skin diseases.
- C6H5COOH is used as a preservative in the food industry.
- Benzoic acid is an ingredient in many cosmetic products, such as lipsticks.
- It is also a precursor to benzoyl chloride, which finds its application in making other chemicals, dyes, perfumes, herbicides and medicines.
- One of the components of toothpaste, mouthwash, and face wash creams is C6H5
- This compound is also used in the manufacture of dyes and in insect repellants.
Physical Properties
- Benzoic acid has a colourless appearance in its solid state, which is of a crystalline nature.
- The crystal structure is monoclinic.
- The presence of the aromatic ring gives this compound a faintly pleasant odour.
- At a temperature of 130oC, the density of this compound reduces to 1.075 grams per cubic centimetre.
Chemical Properties
- It is soluble in water, and the solubility at 25oC and 100oC is 3.44 g/L and 56.31 g/L respectively.
- It is soluble in benzene, carbon tetrachloride, acetone, and alcohols.
- The acid dissociation constant (pKa) of benzoic acid corresponds to 4.2
- Its reactions can occur at the carboxyl group or even at the aromatic ring.