Is benzoic acid polar? What are the uses of benzoic acid?

In this paper, we will talk about the common chemical question "Is benzoic acid polar". Then we will introduce the main method to produce benzoic acid and its application.

Physical properties of benzoic acid

Benzoic acid is a kind of aromatic acid organic compound, the simplest aromatic acid. Benzoic acid (molecular formula C₇H₆O₂) is a colorless pungent liquid, solidified at room temperature, with a boiling point of 249 degrees Celsius. It is chemically stable and soluble in water and ethanol.

Is benzoic acid polar?

Benzoic acid is made up of a benzene ring and a carboxyl group. In the molecular structure of benzoic acid, the benzene ring is partially non-polar, while the carboxylic acid group (-COOH) is a charged ion with a strongly polar structure. Therefore, if someone asks us the question "Is benzoic acid polar”, we can tell him that benzoic acid is a polar molecule. The polarity of benzoic acid makes it have certain solubility and chemical reactivity, and it is easy to miscible and react with other polar substances such as water and alcohol.

Preparation method of benzoic acid 

After discussing the chemical problem: "Is benzoic acid polar”, we will introduce the preparation method of benzoic acid, but this article only introduces the commonly used production method-Liquid phase air oxidation of toluene.

The earliest company using this method to produce benzoic acid was Alied Company in the United States. In this method, toluene is used as raw material, soluble cobalt salt or manganese salt is commonly used as a catalyst, and acetic acid is used as a solvent. The reaction temperature is about 165 degrees Celsius, the pressure is 0.6~0.8 MPa, and the reaction is exothermic. Through the above process, we can obtain benzoic acid. 

The by-products mainly include benzaldehyde, benzyl alcohol, biphenyls, and esters that can be recycled and utilized, especially benzaldehyde and benzyl alcohol, whose unit price is often 4 to 5 times that of benzoic acid. So they can greatly improve the output value and profit of the device.

The application of benzoic acid

By discussing the issue “Is benzoic acid polar”, we can know that it is a polar molecule, with certain solubility and chemical reactivity. So benzoic acid is an important organic synthesis raw material, widely used in dyes, spices, drugs and other fields. The following will introduce its specific application.

1. Used as Formaldehyde

Benzoic acid is bactericidal, low in toxicity and odorless and can inhibit bacterial growth. So they are widely used as preservatives. In a slightly acidic medium, only a 0.1% concentration of benzoic acid can inhibit bacterial growth. In the food industry, benzoic acid, and sodium benzoate can be used as soy sauce, pickles, cider, juice, feed and other preservatives. Benzoic acid and sodium benzoate are also used as preservatives in medicines, cosmetics, toothpaste, perfume powders, tobacco leaves and so on.

2. To Manufacture drugs

Benzoic acid can be used to make various drugs, respectively, to treat arthritis, abscess, bronchitis, and skin diseases. And it can also be used as a local anesthetic. Benzoic acid can make benzoate salicylic acid ointment, treat adult dermatomycosis, tinea pedis and other diseases.

Is benzoic acid toxic? How to give first aid if danger occurs?

Benzoic acid is toxic, which is highly irritating and has an irritating effect on the skin and eyes. The symptoms include tingling, redness, tearing and blurred vision. In serious cases, it will result in permanent eye damage, even blindness. Therefore, if the eyes are in contact with benzoic acid, you need to open the eyelids and rinse the eyes with plenty of water the first time. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.

Benzoic acid can damage the airways and even breath with difficulty if inhaled. If this situation occurs, move to a place with fresh air and comfortable breathing. Oxygen is needed if necessary. If symptoms develop, seek a doctor. If skin comes into contact with benzoic acid, remove all contaminated clothing quickly. Wash your skin entirely with soap and rinse with water for a couple of minutes.

Conclusion:

This brings us to conclude our essay on the topic of "Is benzoic acid polar". Benzoic acid is a polar compound mainly because the carboxylic acid group is strongly polar. It can be applied in medical and chemical fields widely because of its good water solubility and stable chemical properties. Although there are gas-phase oxidation methods and other methods to produce benzoic acid, the air-liquid phase catalytic oxidation method that we introduced in this essay is the common method because of less waste and milder reaction conditions.