P

Pyruvic acid

IUPAC: 2-oxopropanoic acid

C3H4O3 Acids CAS 127-17-3
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationC3H4O3
CAS Number127-17-3
Molecular Weight88.06
Melting Point13.8 °C
Boiling Point54 °C at 1.00E+01 mm Hg
Density1.260-1.281
Solubility1000000 mg/L (at 20 °C)
AppearanceLiquid with an odor like acetic acid; mp = 11.8 deg C; [Merck Index]
Also Known As2-oxopropanoic acid; 2-Oxopropanoic acid; 127-17-3; acetylformic acid; Pyroracemic acid; 2-Oxopropionic acid; Propanoic acid, 2-oxo-; alpha-ketopropionic acid; 2-Ketopropionic acid; 2-Oxopropansaeure
CategoryAcids

What is Pyruvic acid?

Pyruvic acid is a 2-oxo monocarboxylic acid that is the 2-keto derivative of propionic acid. It is a metabolite obtained during glycolysis. It has a role as a cofactor and a fundamental metabolite. It is functionally related to a propionic acid. It is a conjugate acid of a pyruvate.

Formula & Notation

C3H4O3

IUPAC Name: 2-oxopropanoic acid

Other Names / Synonyms: 2-oxopropanoic acid; 2-Oxopropanoic acid; 127-17-3; acetylformic acid; Pyroracemic acid; 2-Oxopropionic acid; Propanoic acid, 2-oxo-; alpha-ketopropionic acid; 2-Ketopropionic acid; 2-Oxopropansaeure

Properties & Characteristics

Appearance: Liquid with an odor like acetic acid; mp = 11.8 deg C; [Merck Index]. Molecular formula: C3H4O3. Molecular weight: 88.06 g/mol. Boiling point: 54 °C at 1.00E+01 mm Hg. Melting point: 13.8 °C. Density: 1.260-1.281. Solubility: 1000000 mg/L (at 20 °C). Vapor pressure: 1.29 [mmHg]. LogP: -0.3.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point13.8 °C
Boiling Point54 °C at 1.00E+01 mm Hg
Density1.260-1.281
Molecular Weight88.06
Solubility1000000 mg/L (at 20 °C)
AppearanceLiquid with an odor like acetic acid; mp = 11.8 deg C; [Merck Index]

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 Pyruvic acid
Formula C3H4O3
CAS Number 127-17-3
Molecular Weight 88.06
Category Acids
Synonyms 2-oxopropanoic acid; 2-Oxopropanoic acid; 127-17-3; acetylformic acid; Pyroracemic acid; 2-Oxopropionic acid; Propanoic acid, 2-oxo-; alpha-ketopropionic acid; 2-Ketopropionic acid; 2-Oxopropansaeure

Frequently Asked Questions

Pyruvic acid is a 2-oxo monocarboxylic acid that is the 2-keto derivative of propionic acid. It is a metabolite obtained during glycolysis. It has a role as a cofactor and a fundamental metabolite. It is functionally related to a propionic acid. It is a conjugate acid of a pyruvate.

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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.