C6H8O4

C6H8O4 is a molecular formula that can correspond to several different chemical structures. It is not unique to a single compound; multiple constitutional isomers may share this formula. The empirical formula for these substances is C3H4O2, and the approximate molar mass is 144.12 g/mol.

The formula C6H8O4 has three degrees of unsaturation, calculated from the formula. This suggests the presence of rings and/or multiple bonds in possible structures, such as cyclic esters, lactones, or other oxygen-containing frameworks, as well as the possibility of diesters or related functional groups. The exact arrangement of atoms determines the properties and classification of the specific substance.

Because many isomers can share the same formula, identifying a particular compound requires structural information beyond the formula. Spectroscopic data (such as NMR and IR), mass spectrometry, or a drawn structural formula—or a SMILES representation—are needed to distinguish among the potential isomers. In chemical databases and literature, C6H8O4 will be linked to several distinct substances, each with its own name, properties, and applications.

In summary, C6H8O4 denotes a molecular formula rather than a single, uniquely defined compound. It encompasses a set of possible structures with shared elemental composition, and precise identification depends on structural details obtained through experimental characterization.