PECTIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Pectic acid is a term used to describe a class of complex organic compounds known as pectins, which are found in plant cell walls. It is a type of acid that plays a significant role in determining the texture and structure of various fruits and vegetables.
Pectic acid is composed of a chain of sugar molecules, particularly galacturonic acid, which are linked together through glycosidic bonds. The acid character of pectic acid allows it to protonate and form hydrogen bonds, resulting in its soluble and gel-like properties. This unique composition and structure contribute to the thickening and gelling properties of pectic acid when it comes into contact with water.
In the presence of enzymes called pectinases, pectic acid can be broken down into smaller components, leading to the softening or ripening of fruits and vegetables. This process is crucial for fruit ripening, making pectic acid an important factor in determining the texture and consistency of fruits and vegetables during the ripening process.
Pectic acid is commonly used in the food industry, particularly in the production of jams, jellies, and other gel-based products due to its ability to form gels and stabilize textures. It is also utilized in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries for its gel-forming and thickening properties.
Overall, pectic acid is a complex organic compound found in plant cell walls that contributes to the texture and structure of fruits and vegetables, especially during the ripening process.
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An acid contained in many small fruits upon which the property of making jelly depends.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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An acid obtained by a small addition of potash to pectine-it exists in many vegetable substances.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PECTIC ACID
- oectic acid
- -ectic acid
- 0ectic acid
- pwctic acid
- psctic acid
- pdctic acid
- prctic acid
- p4ctic acid
- p3ctic acid
- pextic acid
- pevtic acid
- peftic acid
- pedtic acid
- pecric acid
- pecfic acid
- pecgic acid
- pecyic acid
- pec6ic acid
- pec5ic acid
Etymology of PECTIC ACID
The word "pectic acid" is derived from the term "pectin". "Pectin" originates from the Latin word "pectus", meaning "chest" or "lung". This is because the substance was historically extracted from the tissues of fruit, particularly apples, which were associated with the chest area in the human body by ancient Greek and Roman physicians. As for the suffix "ic acid", it is a common naming convention used to indicate that a substance is an acid. Therefore, "pectic acid" refers to the acid form of pectin.
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