Tartaric Acid
Formula
C4H6O6
Preparation
Tartaric acid can be prepared from malic acid. In industry, maleic acid (formed by oxidation of cyclohexanone) is treated with alkaline KMnO4 to produce m-tartaric acid.
Tests for Purity
- Specific rotation: +12 to +12.8° in 20% aqueous solution
- Arsenic: < 2 ppm
- Heavy metals: < 10 ppm
- Free chlorides: < 125 ppm
- Sulfates: < 150 ppm
- Sulfated ash: < 0.1 ppm
- Loss on drying: < 0.2%
Assay
Tartaric acid is assayed by acid–base titration using 1N NaOH.
- 1 mL of 1M NaOH ≡ 0.0705 g tartaric acid
Another method:
- Titrate with N/1 NaOH using phenolphthalein as indicator
- 1000 mL of N/1 alkali ≡ ½ C4H6O6
Uses
- Used in carbonated beverages and effervescent tablets
- Ingredient in baking powders
- Used in silvering of mirrors
- Applications in medical analysis
- Used in preparation of solutions for glucose determination
Detailed Notes:
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PATH: PHARMD/PHARMD NOTES/ PHARMD FIRST YEAR NOTES/ ORGANIC CHEMISTRY/ PHARMACEUTICAL ORGANIC CHEMISTRY/ TARTARIC ACID.