maleic acid
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A colorless, crystalline organic acid. It is an unsaturated dicarboxylic acid with the chemical formula C₄H₄O₄. It is found in some unripe fruits and is primarily used in industrial chemical synthesis.
Examples of Usage
- The presence of maleic acid contributes to the sour taste of unripe apples.
- Maleic acid is a key raw material in the production of certain plastics and coatings.
- Chemists often study the isomerization of maleic acid to fumaric acid.
Advanced Usage
- As a chemical intermediate: In industrial chemistry, maleic acid is described as a crucial intermediate for manufacturing products like agricultural chemicals, dyes, and plasticizers.
- The facility converts maleic acid into anhydride for resin production.
- In scientific contexts: The term is used precisely to distinguish it from its stereoisomer, fumaric acid, highlighting differences in physical properties and biological activity.
- Unlike its isomer fumaric acid, maleic acid is toxic and not part of the human metabolic cycle.
Variants and Related Words
- Maleic anhydride (noun): The anhydride form of maleic acid, widely used in the production of polyester and alkyd resins.
- Maleate (noun): A salt or ester of maleic acid.
Synonyms
- (scientific synonym)
- (an older, less common name)
Notes on Different Meanings
The term maleic acid has a single, specific meaning in chemistry and biology. It does not have common idiomatic or figurative uses. Its definition is strictly tied to its chemical identity and industrial applications.
Noun
- a colorless crystalline compound found in unripe fruit (such as apples or tomatoes or cherries) and used mainly to make polyester resins