HOOCCH2CHOHCOOH

HOOCCH2CHOHCOOH is the chemical formula for malic acid. Malic acid is an organic compound that is a dicarboxylic acid. It is found naturally in many fruits, most notably apples, which is where it derives its name from the Latin word for apple, "malum." It plays a significant role in the metabolic process known as the citric acid cycle, also called the Krebs cycle, which is central to cellular respiration. In this cycle, malic acid is converted to oxaloacetate. Malic acid is a white crystalline solid and is soluble in water. It exists as two enantiomers, L-malic acid and D-malic acid, due to the presence of a chiral center. The L-isomer is the one predominantly found in nature. Industrially, malic acid is produced synthetically. It is commonly used as a food additive, identified by the E number E296, to impart a tart or sour taste. It is also utilized in the cosmetic industry for skincare products.