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benzoic acid

noun

, Chemistry, Pharmacology.
  1. a white, crystalline, slightly water-soluble powder, C 7 H 6 O 2 , usually derived from benzoin or other balsams, or synthesized from phthalic acid or toluene: used chiefly as a preservative, in the synthesis of dyes, and in medicine as a germicide.


benzoic acid

noun

  1. a white crystalline solid occurring in many natural resins, used in the manufacture of benzoates, plasticizers, and dyes and as a food preservative ( E210 ). Formula: C 6 H 5 COOH Systematic namebenzenecarboxylic acid


benzoic acid

/ bĕn-zōĭk /

  1. A white, crystalline acid used in preserving food, as a cosmetic, and in medicine. Benzoic acid consists of a benzene ring with a carboxyl group (COOH) attached. It occurs naturally in some plants. Chemical formula: C 7 H 6 O 2 .


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Word History and Origins

Origin of benzoic acid1

First recorded in 1785–95

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Example Sentences

Organic molecules, like benzoic acid, are particularly good indicators of biosignatures, which are chemicals that could have come from past life on Mars.

Of the former, salt and sugar are examples; of the latter, formaldehyde and possibly benzoic acid.

It differs from that of China, and from the true balsams, in not containing benzoic acid.

If the surface of the liquid immediately becomes red, benzoic acid is present.

A white flocculent precipitate shows the presence of considerable benzoic acid.

If a red color appears immediately on the surface, it shows the presence of benzoic acid.

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benzoicbenzoin