| Formula / Notation | C4H8O2 |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 107-92-6 |
| Molecular Weight | 88.11 |
| Melting Point | 17.8 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 326.3 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 0.958 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float |
| Solubility | greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 66 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Butyric acid appears as a colorless liquid with a penetrating and unpleasant odor. Flash point 170 °F. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Density 8.0 lb /gal. |
| Also Known As | butanoic acid; 107-92-6; n-Butyric acid; n-Butanoic acid; propylformic acid; ethylacetic acid; 1-propanecarboxylic acid; Butanic acid; 1-Butyric acid; Buttersaeure |
| Category | Acids |
What is Butyric acid?
Butyric acid is a straight-chain saturated fatty acid that is butane in which one of the terminal methyl groups has been oxidised to a carboxy group. It has a role as a Mycoplasma genitalium metabolite and a human urinary metabolite. It is a fatty acid 4:0 and a straight-chain saturated fatty acid. It is a conjugate acid of a butyrate.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: butanoic acid
Other Names / Synonyms: butanoic acid; 107-92-6; n-Butyric acid; n-Butanoic acid; propylformic acid; ethylacetic acid; 1-propanecarboxylic acid; Butanic acid; 1-Butyric acid; Buttersaeure
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 17.8 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 326.3 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 0.958 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float |
| Molecular Weight | 88.11 |
| Solubility | greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 66 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Butyric acid appears as a colorless liquid with a penetrating and unpleasant odor. Flash point 170 °F. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Density 8.0 lb /gal. |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Butyric acid is a straight-chain saturated fatty acid that is butane in which one of the terminal methyl groups has been oxidised to a carboxy group. It has a role as a Mycoplasma genitalium metabolite and a human urinary metabolite. It is a fatty acid 4:0 and a straight-chain saturated fatty acid. It is a conjugate acid of a butyrate.
Used in industrial chemical synthesis, fertilizer production, battery electrolytes, metal processing, and laboratory acid-base reactions.
Corrosive. Causes severe burns to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Wear appropriate PPE including gloves, goggles, and lab coat. Consult SDS before use.
The formula or notation for Butyric acid is: C4H8O2