Melanic acid
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Melanic acid | |
---|---|
Common name | melanic acid |
Systematic name | 2,5-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid |
Other names | homogentisic acid |
Chemical formula | C8H8O4 |
Molecular mass | 168.15 g/mol |
Melting point | 150°C to 152°C |
Boiling point | |
CAS number | [451-13-8] |
EINECS number |
Melanic acid is the common name chosen by William Prout for 2,5-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid. The compound is also known as homogentisic acid.
[edit] Structure
Melanic acid is has the systematic name 2,5-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and the structure shown.
[edit] Biological Relevance
Melanic acid is a by-product in the poor metabolism associated with alkaptonuria.