M

Malic acid

IUPAC: (2S)-2-hydroxybutanedioic acid

C4H6O5 Acids CAS 97-67-6
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationC4H6O5
CAS Number97-67-6
Molecular Weight134.09
Melting Point107 °C
Solubilitysoluble in water and alcohol; 1 gm in 0.8 ml water
AppearanceSolid; [Merck Index] White powder; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]
Also Known As(2S)-2-hydroxybutanedioic acid; L-Malic acid; (2S)-2-Hydroxybutanedioic acid; (-)-Malic acid; (-)-Hydroxysuccinic acid; S-(-)-Malic acid; Malic acid, L-; Malic acid L-(-)-form; Hydroxysuccinnic acid (-); Butanedioic acid, 2-hydroxy-, (2S)-
CategoryAcids

What is Malic acid?

(S)-malic acid is an optically active form of malic acid having (S)-configuration. It has a role as a geroprotector. It is a conjugate acid of a (S)-malate(2-). It is an enantiomer of a (R)-malic acid.

Formula & Notation

C4H6O5

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-hydroxybutanedioic acid

Other Names / Synonyms: (2S)-2-hydroxybutanedioic acid; L-Malic acid; (2S)-2-Hydroxybutanedioic acid; (-)-Malic acid; (-)-Hydroxysuccinic acid; S-(-)-Malic acid; Malic acid, L-; Malic acid L-(-)-form; Hydroxysuccinnic acid (-); Butanedioic acid, 2-hydroxy-, (2S)-

Properties & Characteristics

Appearance: Solid; [Merck Index] White powder; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]. Molecular formula: C4H6O5. Molecular weight: 134.09 g/mol. Melting point: 107 °C. Solubility: soluble in water and alcohol; 1 gm in 0.8 ml water. LogP: -1.3.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point107 °C
Molecular Weight134.09
Solubilitysoluble in water and alcohol; 1 gm in 0.8 ml water
AppearanceSolid; [Merck Index] White powder; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]

Uses & Applications

Used in industrial chemical synthesis, fertilizer production, battery electrolytes, metal processing, and laboratory acid-base reactions.

Safety Information

Corrosive. Causes severe burns to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Wear appropriate PPE including gloves, goggles, and lab coat. Consult SDS before use.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Malic acid
Formula C4H6O5
CAS Number 97-67-6
Molecular Weight 134.09
Category Acids
Synonyms (2S)-2-hydroxybutanedioic acid; L-Malic acid; (2S)-2-Hydroxybutanedioic acid; (-)-Malic acid; (-)-Hydroxysuccinic acid; S-(-)-Malic acid; Malic acid, L-; Malic acid L-(-)-form; Hydroxysuccinnic acid (-); Butanedioic acid, 2-hydroxy-, (2S)-

Frequently Asked Questions

(S)-malic acid is an optically active form of malic acid having (S)-configuration. It has a role as a geroprotector. It is a conjugate acid of a (S)-malate(2-). It is an enantiomer of a (R)-malic acid.

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Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.