Benzoic acid is a white solid with the formula C₆H₅CO₂H. It is the simplest aromatic carboxylic acid. The name is derived from gum benzoin, which was for a long time its only source. Benzoic acid occurs naturally in many plants and serves as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of many secondary metabolites.
What is benzoic acid?
As a preservative, you will find benzoic acid in beer, chewing gums, sweets, ice cream, jams, jellies, maraschino cherries and margarine. You will also find benzoic acid used in processed foods such as cheeses and meats.
What is the name of c6h5cooh?
Benzoic acid is an organic compound which is described by the chemical formula C6H5COOH. It consists of a carboxyl group attached to a benzene ring. Therefore, benzoic acid is said to be an aromatic carboxylic acid.