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Malic acid is a naturally occurring acid that present in many fruits, including apples, grapes, and citrus fruits. It is a dicarboxylic acid with the molecular formula \(C_4H_6O_5\). It belongs to alpha-hydroxy acid family. Malic acid is widely employed in the food industry as a flavouring agent. It is also added in the production of wine and other beverages. In addition to its use in food and beverages, malic acid has also been investigated for its potential health benefits, including its ability to improve exercise performance, reduce muscle pain and fatigue, and help regulate blood sugar levels.
This Chemistry Formula article describes the Malic acid formula along with its structure, preparation, properties and uses.
Malic Acid Formula
The chemical formula for malic acid is \(C_4H_6O_5\). It has four carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms, and five oxygen atoms, including two carboxyl (-COOH) groups and one hydroxyl (-OH) group. Malic acid is a dicarboxylic acid, which means it contains two carboxylic acid functional groups.
Malic Acid Structure
The structure of malic acid shows a four-carbon chain with two carboxylic acid functional groups (-COOH) and one hydroxyl group (-OH). The three-dimensional structure with a chiral center, denotes the existence of two stereoisomeric forms, known as L-malic acid and D-malic acid. The L-malic acid is the naturally occurring. It presents in fruits and vegetables, whereas, the D-malic acid is an man made form produced in laboratories.
The structure of malic acid can be represented by a condensed structural formula: \(HOOCCH_2CH(OH)COOH\), or a line-angle structural formula:
The two carboxylic acid functional groups are positioned at the ends of the molecule, while the hydroxyl group is present on the second carbon atom. The structure of malic acid prefers to form hydrogen bonds with other molecules, which provides its ability to function as an acidulant and a flavour enhancer in foods and beverages.
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Production of Malic Acid
Malic acid is produced industrially through several methods, including chemical synthesis and fermentation.
- Chemical synthesis of malic acid involves the reaction of maleic anhydride with water or methanol in the presence of a catalyst to form malic acid. This is energy-intensive process and needs high temperatures and pressures. It is relatively costly and not environmentally friendly.
- Fermentation is one of the best methods for producing malic acid. This is a microbe associated process in which bacteria or yeasts, to convert sugars, such as glucose or fructose, into malic acid. The most common microorganisms utilised in malic acid fermentation is Aspergillus niger, a fungus that is able to produce large amounts of malic acid from glucose or other sugars.
The fermentation process can be conducted in batch, fed-batch, or continuous modes, depending on the specific requirements of the production process. The ultimate step of the fermentation process typically involves the separation and purification of the malic acid from the fermentation broth, which may involve techniques such as filtration, centrifugation, and chromatography.
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Properties of Malic Acid
The properties of malic acid are discussed below:
Physical Properties of Malic Acid
Property | Value |
Chemical Formula | \(C_4H_6O_5\) |
Appearance | White crystalline |
Odour | Apple like sour odour |
Taste | Sour |
Density | \( 1.609 gm/cm^3\) |
Molar mass | 134.09 gm/mol |
Solubility | Water soluble, soluble in polar solvent |
Melting point | \(130-132^°C\) |
Boiling point | \(270-272^°C\) |
Chemical Properties of Malic Acid
Malic acid is a dicarboxylic acid. Its chemical properties include:
- Acidity: Malic acid is a weak organic acid, and its acidity is similar to that of vinegar. It can donate two protons to water molecules to form hydronium ions \(H_3O^+\) and malate ions \(C_4H_5O_5^-\).
- Chirality: Malic acid is a chiral molecule with two stereoisomers, L-malic acid and D-malic acid, which have different physical and chemical properties.
- Stability: Malic acid is stable at normal temperatures and pressures and is resistant to oxidation and decomposition. It can be heated to high temperatures without decomposing.
- Reactivity: Malic acid can undergo reactions with other compounds, such as alcohols, amines, and metals, to form esters, amides, and salts.
- flavour: Malic acid has a sour taste and is commonly used as a flavouring agent in food and beverage products, such as sour candies, soft drinks, and fruit juices.
Overall, malic acid is an important organic acid in biochemistry and is involved in many metabolic pathways in living organisms. Its chemical properties contribute to its various uses in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries, as well as in agricultural and environmental applications.
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Malic Acid Uses
Malic acid has various uses in different industries and applications, including:
- Malic acid is extensively applied in the food and beverage industry as a flavouring agent and acidulant.
- It is a key material in the production of fruit-flavoured drinks, candies, and baked goods, as well as in the manufacturing of wine and other alcoholic beverages.
- Malic acid is applied in the skin conditioning agent, exfoliant, and pH adjuster in various cosmetic and skincare products, like creams, lotions, and serums.
- Malic acid is used in the cleaning industry. It is a chelating agent and pH adjuster in various cleaning products, such as detergents and hard surface cleaners.
- Malic acid is utilized in the agriculture industry as a foliar spray for crop plants. It increases their yield and enhance their resistance to environmental stresses, such as heat and drought.
Hope this article was informative and helpful for your studies and exam preparations. Stay tuned to the Testbook App for more updates and topics related to Chemistry and various such subjects. Also, contact the test series available to examine your knowledge regarding related exam
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Malic Acid Formula FAQs
How is Malic acid produced?
Malic acid can be produced through the fermentation of various fruits, such as apples or grapes, or by chemical synthesis.
Is Malic acid gluten-free?
Yes, Malic acid is gluten-free.
Is Malic acid soluble in water?
Yes, it is water soluble.
What is Malic acid used for?
Malic acid is commonly used as a food additive for its tart and sour flavour, and as a preservative in the food and beverage industry.
What is the source of Malic acid?
Malic acid is found naturally in various fruits, including apples, grapes, apricots, and berries. It is also found in some vegetables such as tomatoes, carrots, and broccoli.
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