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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Malonic Acid and Succinic Acid?

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Malonic acid and succinic acid are both dicarboxylic acids, meaning they contain two carboxylic acid functional groups per molecule. The key difference between the two lies in the number of carbon atoms between the carboxylic acid groups:

  • Malonic Acid: Has one carbon atom between the two carboxylic acid groups.
  • Succinic Acid: Has two carbon atoms between the two carboxylic acid groups.

This structural difference results in distinct chemical properties and commercial applications for each acid.

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  • What is the Difference Between Malonic Acid and Succinic Acid?
  • Comparative Table: Malonic Acid vs Succinic Acid

    • Comparative Table: Malonic Acid vs Succinic Acid

    Malonic acid and succinic acid are both dicarboxylic acids, meaning they contain two carboxylic acid functional groups per molecule. Here is a table highlighting the differences between malonic acid and succinic acid:

    Property Malonic Acid Succinic Acid
    Chemical Formula C3H4O4 (CH2)2(COOH)2
    Carboxylic Acid Groups Separated by a single methylene group Separated by two carbon atoms
    Number of Carbon Atoms 3 4
    Production Routes Not mentioned Hydrogenation of maleic acid, oxidation of 1,4-butanediol, carbonylation of ethylene glycol, or from butane and maleic anhydride
    Historical Source Not mentioned Distillation of amber to produce amber spirit

    The key difference between malonic acid and succinic acid is the number of carbon atoms between the two carboxylic acid groups. Malonic acid has one carbon atom between the carboxylic acid groups, while succinic acid has two carbon atoms between the carboxylic acid groups.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.