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.

Structure of melanic acid.

[edit] Biological Relevance

Melanic acid is a by-product in the poor metabolism associated with alkaptonuria.

[edit] External links