[Chemistry Class Notes] on Stearic Acid Pdf for Exam

A scientist named Chevreul M.E. initially discovered the Stearic Acid formula (18 carbon atoms) in his fat studies in 1823. Stearic Acid comes after the Grecian term stéar, which means fat (also known as beef fat). It is a long-chain fatty acid (LCFA) with 14 to 18 carbon atoms that is a saturated fatty acid (no C=C double bonds). But, what is Stearic Acid? Stearic Acid is a sticky, whitish substance with a moderate odor that hovers on the surface of liquid naturally. Stearic Acid is found in vegetable and animal fats, with shea butter and cocoa butter being the most common forms. Stearic Acid in cosmetics and plastics, as well as softened plastics and stiffening detergents, are often used. Here you will read about the melting point of Stearic Acid, Stearic Acids in cosmetics, and what is Stearic Acid.

Stearic Acid Formula

As seen in the diagram below, Stearic Acid has an 18-carbon backbone and a straight-chain Stearic Acid structure.

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The above diagram represents the Stearic Acid formula and Stearic Acid structure. 

Properties of Stearic Acid Structure

Production of Stearic Acid

It is made of oils and properties of fatty acids by the saponification of triglycerides with heated liquid at a heat of around 100 degrees Celsius. The resulting solution is distilled. The most commonly available octadecanoic acid is a blend of palmitic and Stearic Acids.

Stereophonic acid has more animal fat than vegetable fat in terms of oils and fats. There are a few outliers, such as shea butter and cocoa butter, which contain roughly 28–45 percent Stearic Acid. It possesses the properties of fatty acids.  It’s also made biosynthetically from carbs, thanks to the fatty acid machinery. In other words, it is a fatty acid example.

Stearic Acid Use

Since Stearic Acid possesses a bifunctional nature, a polar head unit that may be connected to metallic activities, it offers a wide range of applications. Stearic Acid’s apolar branch is also soluble and contains organic substances. As a result of this mixture, Stearic Acid is used as a detergent and relaxing ingredient in a variety of applications.

As well as the usage of Stearic Acid in all of such goods is due to the fact that it is reasonably affordable, inactive, and non-toxic. Furthermore, since Stearic Acid undergoes the normal interactions of saturated carboxylic acids, it is also employed in beverages. Because Stearic Acid resists oxidation, metals may be held for a prolonged period.

Here is a list of commodities that require the use of Stearic Acid: 

• For the pearly effect, 

• as a food component in detergents in soaps, cosmetics, and cleaners

• As a fantastic softening and releasing agent

• Like a negative plate additive in lead-acid battery production

• Hardening candies in sugar or corn syrup

• Gums for chewing

• In order to create vitamins and tablets

• Candles are made from fatty acid is Stearic Acid.

• As an antioxidant coating for aluminum and iron powder.

The above products are all fatty acid examples.

Stearic Acid Safety

Stearic Acid is a saturated fat that is employed in a variety of diets. And, when contrasted to carbohydrates and other saturated fats. Stearic Acid is far better to consume since it decreases LDL (low-density lipoproteins) cholesterol, also known as nasty cholesterol. Stearic Acid has been shown to be safe in several studies. Animal fats are the predominant dietary source of this acid, with botanical fats providing just a minor contribution (Exceptions: coconut, cocoa butter, palm kernel oil ). Similarly, there is no evidence that Stearic Acid consumption causes heart disease and does not affect a person’s blood lipid profile during consumption.

Fun Facts

“Although Stearic Acid is utilized in a variety of foods, it is present in nature in diluted levels. However, if Stearic Acid and magnesium combine, magnesium stearate is created, which is toxic and can cause a variety of negative effects if ingested. This chemical molecule is also flammable and heats up freely, causing irritation to the respiratory organs and skin.”

“The melting point of Stearic Acid is so high because it is a saturated fatty acid”.