C5H8O6

C5H8O6 is the molecular formula for several different chemical compounds, all of which are isomers. One common isomer with this formula is mucic acid, also known as galactaric acid. Mucic acid is a dicarboxylic acid derived from galactose. It is a white crystalline solid and is not soluble in water. It can be prepared by the oxidation of galactose with nitric acid. Mucic acid has found limited industrial applications, including as a precursor for some plastics and as a component in certain metal-cleaning formulations.

Another compound with the formula C5H8O6 is malic acid. Malic acid is an organic acid found naturally in fruits, such as apples, where it contributes to their sour taste. It exists in two stereoisomeric forms, L-malic acid and D-malic acid, as well as a racemic mixture. L-malic acid is the predominant form found in nature and is an important intermediate in the citric acid cycle. Malic acid is widely used as a food additive, acting as an acidulant and flavoring agent, and is also utilized in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.