Citric Acid Monohydrate (CAS 5949-29-1)

Citric Acid Monohydrate is a form of citric acid that is bound to a single water molecule, widely recognized for its pivotal role in biochemistry and various industrial applications. Structurally, it is a weak organic acid which is central to the metabolic pathways in living organisms, particularly in the Krebs cycle where it facilitates the conversion of carbs, fats, and proteins into carbon dioxide and water to generate energy. In research, citric acid monohydrate′s ability to chelate metals makes it invaluable. This chelation ability is due to its three carboxyl (-COOH) groups, which can bind to metals, making it useful in adjusting the metal ion concentration in solutions which is crucial during enzymatic reactions where metal ions might inhibit or alter enzyme activities. Furthermore, its use in preparing buffer solutions is widespread; it helps maintain the pH and stability of biochemical solutions, thereby preserving the integrity of biological samples. In analytical chemistry, citric acid monohydrate acts as a standard for calibrating pH meters and as a reagent in chemical synthesis and titrations. The compound′s versatile properties also extend to its use as a natural preservative and flavoring agent in the food industry, though its applications in research primarily leverage its biochemical and chelating capabilities to facilitate and enhance experimental outcomes.