Benzoic acid

Structural formula

Benzoic acid, C₆H₅C(O)OH, is an aromatic carboxylic acid. Benzoic acid is used as a food preservative and occurs naturally in certain plants. For example, it occurs in gum benzoin, which is a major component of the type of church incense used in Russia.

The aromatic ring is similar to that of benzene.

Among benzoic acid's derivatives are Salicylic acid and 2-O-acetylsalicyclic acid, also known as aspirin.

As a food additive, it is, in Europe, known as E210 for the pure compound, or as E211, E212, or E213 for its salts.

Physical Properties:

Molecular Weight: 122.12
Boiling Point: 249ºC (480ºF)
Melting Point: 122ºC (252ºF)

Solubility at 20°C = 0.28 g per 100 cm³
Solubility at 95°C = 6.9 g per 100 cm³

See also: Benzone