potassium hydrogen tartrate
Definition
Noun: A white, crystalline salt with the chemical formula KHC₄H₄O₆. It is a byproduct of winemaking and is used primarily as a key acidic component in baking powder, where it reacts with baking soda to produce carbon dioxide gas, causing dough or batter to rise.
Usage
This term is used in scientific, culinary, and industrial contexts to refer to a specific chemical compound. - It is a countable noun (e.g., a crystal of potassium hydrogen tartrate). - It is often referred to by its common name, cream of tartar.
Examples
- Scientific/Industrial Context:
- The recipe calls for potassium hydrogen tartrate to stabilize the egg whites.
- Winemakers often find potassium hydrogen tartrate crystals, known as "tartrates," forming in wine barrels and bottles.
- Culinary Context:
- As a primary ingredient in some baking powders, potassium hydrogen tartrate ensures a consistent rise in baked goods.
Advanced Usage
- "To inhibit crystallization": Potassium hydrogen tartrate is used in sugar syrups and candymaking to prevent the formation of large sugar crystals, resulting in a smoother texture.
- A pinch of potassium hydrogen tartrate was added to the syrup to keep it smooth.
Variants and Related Words
- Cream of tartar (n): The common culinary and household name for potassium hydrogen tartrate.
- For this meringue, you will need cream of tartar.
- Potassium bitartrate (n): A synonymous chemical name.
- Tartrate (n): A general term for any salt or ester of tartaric acid, which includes potassium hydrogen tartrate.
Synonyms
- Cream of tartar (common name)
- Potassium bitartrate (scientific synonym)
Notes on Meaning
This word has a single, specific meaning as a chemical compound. Its usage outside of scientific or culinary contexts is rare.
Noun
-
a salt used especially in baking powder
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