Pyruvic Acid, Ketopropanoic Acid, Pyruvate, Ketopropanoic Acid, Oxopropanoic Acid, 127-17-3

Pyruvic Acid, Ketopropanoic Acid, Pyruvate, Ketopropanoic Acid, Oxopropanoic Acid, 127-17-3

General Information

Pyruvic acid is an alpha-keto acid with the chemical formula C₃H₄O₃. It plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism, particularly in glycolysis and the Krebs cycle. It is widely used in biochemical research, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food applications.

Chemical & Physical Properties

• Chemical Formula: C₃H₄O₃

• CAS Number: 127-17-3

• Molecular Weight: 88.06 g/mol

• Density: 1.267 g/mL at 25°C

• Melting Point: 11-12°C

• Boiling Point: 165°C

• Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohol, chloroform, and diethyl ether

• pKa: 2.39 at 25°C

• Flash Point: 183°F (84°C, closed cup)

• Stability: Stable but combustible; incompatible with strong oxidizing agents and bases

Uses & Applications

• Biochemical Research: Used in metabolic studies and enzyme reactions.

• Pharmaceuticals: Acts as a diagnostic agent for Parkinson’s disease and has antioxidant properties.

• Food Industry: Approved by the FDA (21 CFR 172.515) for use in food.

• Cosmetics: Used in skin exfoliation and anti-aging formulations.

• Industrial Applications: Serves as an intermediate in organic synthesis.

Other Names

• 2-Oxopropanoic acid (IUPAC name)

• Alpha-ketopropionic acid

• Ketopropanoic acid

• Pyruvate (salt and ester forms)

Pyruvic acid is a key metabolic compound with diverse applications across science, medicine, and industry.