Benzoic acid

CAS 65-85-0C7H6O2122.12 g/mol

Benzoic acid is a compound comprising a benzene ring core carrying a carboxylic acid substituent. It has a role as an EC 1.13.11.33 (arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase) inhibitor, an EC 3.1.1.3 (triacylglycerol lipase) inhibitor, an antimicrobial food preservative, a plant metabolite, a human xenobiotic metabolite, an algal metabolite and a drug allergen. It is a conjugate acid of a benzoate.

IUPAC: benzoic acid

PubChem

Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical and chemical properties
Melting Point	252.3 °F (NTP, 1992)
Boiling Point	480 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)
Density	1.316 at 82.4 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink
Solubility	less than 1 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)
Flash Point	250 °F (NTP, 1992)
Vapor Pressure	1 mmHg at 205 °F (NTP, 1992)
pH	About 4 (solution in water)
Appearance	Benzoic acid appears as a white crystalline solid. Slightly soluble in water. The primary hazard is the potential for environmental damage if released. Immediate steps should be taken to limit spread to the environment. Used to make other chemicals, as a food preservative, and for other uses.