23dihydroxybutanedioic

2,3-dihydroxybutanedioic acid, also known as tartaric acid, is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid found in many plants, most notably grapes. It is a white crystalline solid that is soluble in water and alcohol. Tartaric acid is chiral, meaning it exists in three stereoisomeric forms: L-(+)-tartaric acid, D-(-)-tartaric acid, and meso-tartaric acid. The naturally occurring form is L-(+)-tartaric acid.

Historically, tartaric acid was discovered in the form of cream of tartar, a byproduct of winemaking. Its chemical structure was later determined. Tartaric acid plays a significant role in the food industry, where it is used as an antioxidant, leavening agent, and acidulant. It contributes to the sour taste in many fruits and is a key component in baking powders. In its salt forms, such as potassium bitartrate, it is also used in various culinary applications.

Beyond its use in food, tartaric acid has applications in pharmaceuticals, metal cleaning, and as a chiral resolving agent in organic synthesis. Its ability to form complexes with metal ions makes it useful in certain industrial processes. The different stereoisomers of tartaric acid can exhibit distinct properties and are utilized in specific chemical and biological applications.