| Formula / Notation | C2H4O3 |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 79-14-1 |
| Molecular Weight | 76.05 |
| Melting Point | 79.5 °C |
| Boiling Point | 100 °C |
| Density | 1.49 at 25 °C/4 °C |
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, ethyl ether |
| Appearance | Liquid; NKRA |
| Also Known As | 2-hydroxyacetic acid; 2-Hydroxyacetic acid; 79-14-1; hydroxyacetic acid; Hydroxyethanoic acid; Glycollic acid; glycolate; alpha-Hydroxyacetic acid; 2-Hydroxyethanoic acid; Kyselina glykolova |
| Category | Acids |
What is Glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is a 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid that is acetic acid where the methyl group has been hydroxylated. It has a role as a metabolite and a keratolytic drug. It is a primary alcohol and a 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid. It is functionally related to an acetic acid. It is a conjugate acid of a glycolate.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: 2-hydroxyacetic acid
Other Names / Synonyms: 2-hydroxyacetic acid; 2-Hydroxyacetic acid; 79-14-1; hydroxyacetic acid; Hydroxyethanoic acid; Glycollic acid; glycolate; alpha-Hydroxyacetic acid; 2-Hydroxyethanoic acid; Kyselina glykolova
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 79.5 °C |
| Boiling Point | 100 °C |
| Density | 1.49 at 25 °C/4 °C |
| Molecular Weight | 76.05 |
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, ethyl ether |
| Appearance | Liquid; NKRA |
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
Glycolic acid is a 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid that is acetic acid where the methyl group has been hydroxylated. It has a role as a metabolite and a keratolytic drug. It is a primary alcohol and a 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid. It is functionally related to an acetic acid. It is a conjugate acid of a glycolate.
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 Glycolic acid is: C2H4O3