Butanoic acid

Butanoic acid (also known as butyric acid) is a carboxylic acid that is found in ruminant mammal milk, such as cows and sheep, as well as in some plant oils and animal fats. It is a fatty acid with the chemical formula C4H8O2.

Chemical Structure

Butanoic acid is a four-carbon fatty acid. Its structure consists of a carboxyl group (COOH) attached to a three-carbon alkyl group (CH3CH2CH2). The carboxyl group gives butanoic acid its acidic properties.

Properties

Butanoic acid is a colorless liquid that is soluble in water. It has a strong, unpleasant smell, often described as similar to rancid butter. This is due to the presence of butanoic acid in spoiled butter and other dairy products. It has a boiling point of 164 degrees Celsius and a melting point of -5 degrees Celsius.

Production

Butanoic acid is produced industrially through the fermentation of starch or sugar by the bacteria Clostridium butyricum. It can also be synthesized chemically from butanol by oxidation.

Uses

Butanoic acid is used in a variety of applications. It is used in the production of plasticizers, perfumes, and flavoring agents. It is also used in animal feed to promote growth, and in the manufacture of biofuels.

Health Effects

Exposure to butanoic acid can cause irritation to the skin and eyes. Ingestion can lead to abdominal pain and vomiting. However, it is generally considered safe in small amounts, such as those found in food.

See Also

• Carboxylic acid
• Fatty acid
• Fermentation
• Biofuel