M

Mandelic acid

IUPAC: 2-hydroxy-2-phenylacetic acid

C8H8O3 Acids CAS 90-64-2
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationC8H8O3
CAS Number90-64-2
Molecular Weight152.15
AppearancePellets or Large Crystals; Liquid
Also Known As2-hydroxy-2-phenylacetic acid; dl-Mandelic acid; 90-64-2; Phenylglycolic acid; Paramandelic acid; Amygdalic acid; Uromaline; Racemic mandelic acid; Phenylhydroxyacetic acid; (RS)-Mandelic acid
CategoryAcids

What is Mandelic acid?

Mandelic acid is a 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid that is acetic acid in which two of the methyl hydrogens are substituted by phenyl and hydroxyl groups. It has a role as an antibacterial agent and a human xenobiotic metabolite. It is a member of benzenes and a 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid. It is functionally related to an acetic acid. It is a conjugate acid of a mandelate.

Formula & Notation

C8H8O3

IUPAC Name: 2-hydroxy-2-phenylacetic acid

Other Names / Synonyms: 2-hydroxy-2-phenylacetic acid; dl-Mandelic acid; 90-64-2; Phenylglycolic acid; Paramandelic acid; Amygdalic acid; Uromaline; Racemic mandelic acid; Phenylhydroxyacetic acid; (RS)-Mandelic acid

Properties & Characteristics

Appearance: Pellets or Large Crystals; Liquid. Molecular formula: C8H8O3. Molecular weight: 152.15 g/mol. Vapor pressure: 0.0000164 [mmHg]. LogP: 0.6.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Molecular Weight152.15
AppearancePellets or Large Crystals; Liquid

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 Mandelic acid
Formula C8H8O3
CAS Number 90-64-2
Molecular Weight 152.15
Category Acids
Synonyms 2-hydroxy-2-phenylacetic acid; dl-Mandelic acid; 90-64-2; Phenylglycolic acid; Paramandelic acid; Amygdalic acid; Uromaline; Racemic mandelic acid; Phenylhydroxyacetic acid; (RS)-Mandelic acid

Frequently Asked Questions

Mandelic acid is a 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid that is acetic acid in which two of the methyl hydrogens are substituted by phenyl and hydroxyl groups. It has a role as an antibacterial agent and a human xenobiotic metabolite. It is a member of benzenes and a 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid. It is functionally related to an acetic acid. It is a conjugate acid of a mandelate.

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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.