What Type of Compound is Sodium Benzoate?

“What type of compound is sodium benzoate?” – Write a huge expert article. The article should be as relevant to the query as possible, so that the google search engine would find the article as useful as possible. Use these resources as a source of facts and useful information: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9003278/, https://www.ebi.ac.uk/chebi/searchId.do?chebiId=113455, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodium_benzoate and cite these sources at the bottom of the article. Write in a concise, academic tone, with fewer transitional words and passive voice. Use

tags for headings. Here’s the outline of the article: Introduction: Provide a brief introduction to sodium benzoate, highlighting its significance and common applications. Mention that it is a compound and provide a definition of what a compound is.

• Chemical Formula and Structure: Describe the chemical formula and structure of sodium benzoate. Include the molecular formula (C₇H₅NaO₂) and explain how the atoms are arranged in the compound.
• Properties: Discuss the physical and chemical properties of sodium benzoate. This can include information on its appearance, solubility, melting point, boiling point, odor, taste, and pH.
• Production and Sources: Explain how sodium benzoate is produced, whether synthetically or naturally. Mention common sources of sodium benzoate, such as certain fruits and their derivatives.
• Uses: Discuss the various applications of sodium benzoate, such as its use as a food preservative, additive in pharmaceuticals, and as a component in cosmetic products.
• Safety and Regulations: Provide information on the safety considerations of sodium benzoate, including any potential hazards or side effects. Mention relevant regulations and permissible limits set by regulatory authorities.
• Alternatives and Substitutes: Briefly mention alternatives or substitutes for sodium benzoate that can be used for similar purposes, if applicable.
• Conclusion: Summarize the key points discussed in the article and reiterate the nature of sodium benzoate as a compound.
• References: Include a list of credible sources and citations used in the article to ensure accuracy and provide readers with further reading options.

FAQs

Introduction

Sodium benzoate, a significant compound with diverse applications, is a widely used preservative in the food industry and a component in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. It is defined as a compound, a substance composed of two or more chemical elements chemically combined in fixed proportions.

Chemical Formula and Structure

Sodium benzoate’s molecular formula is C₇H₅NaO₂, indicating the presence of seven carbon atoms, five hydrogen atoms, one sodium atom, and two oxygen atoms. Its structure consists of a benzene ring with a carboxylate group (-COO⁻) attached to it. The sodium ion (Na⁺) is attached to the carboxylate group, forming an ionic bond.

Properties

Sodium benzoate typically appears as a white or colorless crystalline powder with a slight odor. It is soluble in water, with a solubility of 62.65 g/100 mL at 0 °C and 74.2 g/100 mL at 100 °C. Its melting point is 410 °C, and it decomposes before reaching its boiling point. Sodium benzoate has a slightly sweet and astringent taste and a pH of approximately 8.0 in a 1% aqueous solution.

Production and Sources

Sodium benzoate is primarily produced synthetically through the neutralization of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) with benzoic acid (C₆H₅COOH). Benzoic acid can be obtained from natural sources, such as certain fruits (e.g., cranberries and bilberries) and their derivatives.

Uses

Sodium benzoate is widely used as a food preservative due to its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi. It is commonly found in acidic foods and beverages, such as salad dressings, carbonated drinks, jams, and fruit juices. Additionally, it is used as a preservative in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products.

Safety and Regulations

Sodium benzoate is generally considered safe for consumption when used within recommended limits. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or sensitivity to the compound. Regulatory authorities, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have established permissible limits for sodium benzoate usage in food products.

Alternatives and Substitutes

In some cases, alternatives or substitutes for sodium benzoate may be used for similar purposes. These alternatives can include potassium sorbate, calcium propionate, and sorbic acid. The choice of substitute depends on the specific application and desired properties.

Conclusion

Sodium benzoate, a compound composed of carbon, hydrogen, sodium, and oxygen atoms, is a widely used preservative in the food industry and a component in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Its safety profile, along with its effectiveness as a preservative, makes it a valuable additive in various products.

References

1. “Sodium Benzoate – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics”. www.sciencedirect.com. Retrieved 2023-07-25.
2. “Sodium benzoate (CHEBI:113455)”. www.ebi.ac.uk. Retrieved 2023-07-25.
3. “Sodium benzoate – Wikipedia”. en.wikipedia.org. Retrieved 2023-07-25.