Na2C4H4O6

Na2C4H4O6 is the chemical formula for sodium tartrate. It is the sodium salt of tartaric acid, a naturally occurring organic acid found in grapes and other fruits. Sodium tartrate exists in several forms, including anhydrous sodium tartrate and sodium tartrate dihydrate, which incorporates two molecules of water into its crystal structure.

This compound is a white crystalline solid that is soluble in water. It has a variety of applications, primarily in the food industry. Sodium tartrate is used as a food additive, often designated with the E number E335. It functions as an emulsifier, a buffering agent, and a sequestrant. It can be found in baked goods, processed cheeses, and some beverages. Its ability to bind metal ions helps to prevent oxidation and maintain the color and flavor of food products.

Beyond its culinary uses, sodium tartrate has applications in other fields. It is used in analytical chemistry as a component of Fehling's solution, a reagent used to test for the presence of reducing sugars. In some pharmaceutical preparations, it can act as a laxative. Historically, it has also found use in textile dyeing and silvering mirrors. The production of sodium tartrate typically involves the neutralization of tartaric acid with a sodium base, such as sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide.