Citric Acid

**Systematic name:**

2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid

**General formula:** C₆H₈O₇

**Rational formula:**

HOOCCH₂C(OH)(COOH)CH₂COOH

**Molar mass:** 192,12 g/mol

**Information:** Citric acid is a weak tricarboxylic acid. In biochemistry it is an important intermediate in the citrate cycle.

**Use:** Citric acid is a natural preservative and is used as a flavouring component in food and beverages (E 330).

**Occurrence:** It is encountered in the juice of many fruits, especially lemon and lime, in which its amount may go up to 8% in dry weight.