1- what is Citric acid ?

Citric acid is a weak organic acid that occurs naturally in citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, oranges, and
grapefruits. It is a common food additive and preservative, often used to add a sour or acidic taste to
various foods and beverages. Citric acid is also used in a variety of other applications, including in the
pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

In food and beverage production, citric acid is employed for its acidifying properties, as a flavor
enhancer, and as a natural preservative. It can also be found in some household cleaning products due to
its ability to break down mineral deposits and stains.

Citric acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in accordance with established guidelines,
making it a widely accepted and widely used ingredient in the food and beverage industry.

Citric acid contains

Citric acid is a relatively simple organic compound with the chemical formula C6H8O7. It is composed of
carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) atoms. Its molecular structure consists of three carboxylic acid
functional groups, which are responsible for its acidic properties.

In this structural formula:

"C" represents carbon atoms.

"H" represents hydrogen atoms.

"O" represents oxygen atoms.

"RCOOH" represents the carboxylic acid groups, which gives acidity for the compound .

The three carboxylic acid groups in citric acid are responsible for its acidity, as they can release hydrogen
ions (H+) in solution, making it an acid. Citric acid is a weak acid, and it is commonly used as an acidulant
and a pH control agent in various food and beverage products.