C6H7O8

C6H7O8 refers to a chemical formula that can represent several different chemical compounds. The empirical formula indicates a molecule containing six carbon atoms, seven hydrogen atoms, and eight oxygen atoms.

One common compound with this formula is citric acid monohydrate. Citric acid itself has the formula C6H8O7. When it crystallizes from water, it can incorporate one molecule of water, leading to the formula C6H7O8 for the hydrated form. Citric acid is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits. It is widely used as a food additive for flavoring and as a preservative. It also plays a role in the citric acid cycle, a fundamental metabolic pathway in living organisms.

Another possibility for the formula C6H7O8 could be isomers or derivatives of other organic acids or related structures. Without further context or specification, it is difficult to pinpoint a single definitive compound. However, given the prevalence and commonality, citric acid monohydrate is a highly probable interpretation of C6H7O8. The specific arrangement of atoms, including bonding and spatial orientation, determines the unique properties of each isomer or compound that shares this molecular formula.