Benzoic acid

Structural formula

Benzoic acid, C₆H₅C(O)OH, is an aromatic carboxylic acid. Benzoic acid is used as a food preservative and occurs naturally in certain plants. For example, it is a major component of gum benzoin , which in turn is a major component of the type of church incense used in Russia and some other Orthodox Christian societies.

The aromatic ring is similar to that of benzene.

Among benzoic acid's derivatives are Salicylic acid and 2-O-acetylsalicyclic acid, also known as aspirin.

As a food additive, it is, in Europe, known as E210 for the pure compound, or as E211, E212, or E213 for its salts.

Physical Properties:

Molecular Weight: 122.12
Boiling Point: 249ºC (480ºF)
Melting Point: 122ºC (252ºF)

Solubility at 20°C = 0.28 g per 100 cm³
Solubility at 95°C = 6.9 g per 100 cm³