Overview

Benzoic acid (ben-ZO-ik AS-id) is the simplest of the aromatic carboxylic acids, a family of organic compounds containing the carboxyl (-COOH) group. It occurs in the form of white crystalline needles or thin plates. Many naturally occurring plants contain benzoic acid, including most types of berries and the natural product called gum benzoin, a plant common to the islands of Java, Sumatra, and Borneo. Gum benzoin may contain up to 20 percent benzoic acid. Benzoic acid is also excreted by most animals (except fowl) in the form of a related compound called hippuric acid (C₆H₅CONHCH₂COOH).

Key Facts

Other Names:

Carboxybenzene, benzenecarboxylic acid, phenylformic acid

Formula:

C₆H₅COOH

Elements:

Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen

Compound Type:

Organic acid

State:

Solid

Molecular Weight:

122.12 g/mol

Melting Point:

122.35°C (252.23°F)

Boiling Point:

249.2°C (480.6°F)

Solubility:

Slightly soluble in water; soluble in alcohol, ether, and acetone

How It Is Made