CEROTIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Cerotic acid is a long-chain fatty acid that belongs to the group of saturated fatty acids. It is also known as hexacosanoic acid, as it contains 26 carbon atoms in its molecular structure. Cerotic acid is a solid, waxy substance that is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like ether and alcohol.
This fatty acid is commonly found in nature, particularly in certain plants, animal waxes, and milk fat. It is notably abundant in beeswax, where it contributes to the hardness and stability of the wax. Cerotic acid is also present in the oils of rice bran and wheat germ, as well as in comfrey and euphorbia plants.
In terms of its chemical properties, cerotic acid possesses a long hydrocarbon chain with a carboxyl group at one end. This structure gives it various potential applications, specifically in the manufacturing of cosmetics, skincare products, and candles. Cerotic acid is often used as an emollient or thickening agent due to its waxy consistency, which helps to improve the texture and stability of these products.
Additionally, cerotic acid may have other potential uses in the pharmaceutical and biomedical industries. However, further research is necessary to explore its full range of applications and potential benefits.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CEROTIC ACID
- xerotic acid
- verotic acid
- ferotic acid
- derotic acid
- cwrotic acid
- csrotic acid
- cdrotic acid
- crrotic acid
- c4rotic acid
- c3rotic acid
- ceeotic acid
- cedotic acid
- cefotic acid
- cetotic acid
- ce5otic acid
- ce4otic acid
- ceritic acid
- cerktic acid
- cerltic acid
Etymology of CEROTIC ACID
The word "cerotic" is derived from the Greek word "keras", which means "horn", and it refers to the waxy substance present in the surface layers of the skin or exoskeletons of various animals. The term "cerotic acid" comes from this association with the waxy substance.
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