HOOCOCH2COOH

HOOCOCH2COOH, more commonly known as malonic acid, is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH2(COOH)2. It is a dicarboxylic acid, meaning it contains two carboxyl functional groups. Malonic acid is a white crystalline solid that is soluble in water and alcohol. It is a naturally occurring compound, found in plants and some animals, and is an intermediate in cellular respiration.

Industrially, malonic acid is synthesized through various methods, including the hydrolysis of diethyl malonate. Diethyl malonate itself can be produced from chloroacetic acid and sodium cyanide, followed by esterification with ethanol. Malonic acid is a key building block in organic synthesis. It is used in the production of barbiturates, flavoring agents, and fragrances. Its ability to undergo decarboxylation upon heating to form acetic acid is a significant chemical property that is exploited in synthetic routes. Malonic acid derivatives are also employed in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and polymers.