Overview

Beta-carotene (β-carotene; BAY-tuh KARE-oh-teen) belongs to a family of organic compounds called the carotenoids. The carotenoids are all brightly pigmented (colored) compounds found in a number of plants, bacteria, algae, and fungi. Beta-carotene is responsible for the yellowish to orange color of pumpkins, apricots, sweet potatoes, nectarines, and, most notably, carrots. The compound also occurs in spinach and broccoli, but in such small concentrations that the green chlorophyl present masks the orange color of beta-carotene. In its pure form, beta-carotene occurs as purple crystals shaped like thin leaflets.

In plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria, beta-carotene plays an important role in photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert water and carbon dioxide into carbohydrates and oxygen. In nonphotosynthetic bacteria and fungi, beta-carotene protects the organism against the harmful effects of light and oxygen.

Key Facts

Other Names:

β,β-Carotene; carotaben

Formula:

C₄₀H₅₆

Elements:

Carbon, hydrogen

Compound Type:

Hydrocarbon...