| Formula / Notation | C3H6O2 |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 79-09-4 |
| Molecular Weight | 74.08 |
| Melting Point | -6.7 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 285.3 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 0.995 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float |
| Solubility | greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 72 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Propionic acid is a colorless liquid with a sharp rancid odor. Produces irritating vapor. (USCG, 1999) |
| Also Known As | propanoic acid; Propanoic acid; 79-09-4; methylacetic acid; ethylformic acid; Carboxyethane; Metacetonic acid; Ethanecarboxylic acid; Luprosil; Pseudoacetic acid |
| Category | Acids |
What is Propionic acid?
Propionic acid is a short-chain saturated fatty acid comprising ethane attached to the carbon of a carboxy group. It has a role as an antifungal drug. It is a saturated fatty acid and a short-chain fatty acid. It is a conjugate acid of a propionate.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: propanoic acid
Other Names / Synonyms: propanoic acid; Propanoic acid; 79-09-4; methylacetic acid; ethylformic acid; Carboxyethane; Metacetonic acid; Ethanecarboxylic acid; Luprosil; Pseudoacetic acid
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | -6.7 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 285.3 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 0.995 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float |
| Molecular Weight | 74.08 |
| Solubility | greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 72 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Propionic acid is a colorless liquid with a sharp rancid odor. Produces irritating vapor. (USCG, 1999) |
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
Propionic acid is a short-chain saturated fatty acid comprising ethane attached to the carbon of a carboxy group. It has a role as an antifungal drug. It is a saturated fatty acid and a short-chain fatty acid. It is a conjugate acid of a propionate.
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 Propionic acid is: C3H6O2