CCl3COOH

Trichloroacetic acid, with the chemical formula CCl3COOH, is a chlorinated derivative of acetic acid. It is a strong organic acid that appears as a colorless crystalline solid at room temperature. Trichloroacetic acid is soluble in water, as well as in many organic solvents such as ethanol and diethyl ether. Its molecular structure consists of a carboxyl group (-COOH) where three hydrogen atoms on the methyl group have been replaced by chlorine atoms. This high degree of chlorination significantly increases its acidity compared to acetic acid.

Trichloroacetic acid has several important applications, particularly in biochemistry and medicine. It is widely used as a precipitating agent for proteins and nucleic acids in laboratory settings due to its ability to denature these biomolecules. In dermatology, it is employed as a chemical peel to treat various skin conditions, including acne scars, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, by causing controlled exfoliation of the skin. It also finds use as an antiviral agent, particularly for the treatment of warts. Care should be taken when handling trichloroacetic acid as it is corrosive and can cause severe burns upon contact with skin and eyes.