CH3CH210COOH

CH3CH210COOH is the chemical formula for decanoic acid, also known as capric acid. It is a saturated fatty acid with a ten-carbon chain. Decanoic acid is a white crystalline solid at room temperature. It is an organic compound belonging to the carboxylic acid family. The molecule consists of a ten-carbon aliphatic chain with a carboxyl group (-COOH) at one end. This structure gives it both hydrophobic (the hydrocarbon chain) and hydrophilic (the carboxyl group) properties, classifying it as an amphipathic molecule.

Decanoic acid occurs naturally in various animal and vegetable fats and oils. It is a significant component of coconut oil and palm kernel oil, where it is found in the form of triglycerides. It is also present in human breast milk. Its characteristic odor is often described as being somewhat rancid or goat-like, which is reflected in its common name, capric acid, derived from the Latin word for goat.

Industrially, decanoic acid is produced through the hydrolysis of coconut oil or palm kernel oil. It finds widespread applications in the production of soaps, detergents, cosmetics, and as a precursor for various chemical syntheses. It is also used as a food additive and flavoring agent in some regions. In biological systems, decanoic acid can be metabolized for energy.