The chemical formula for calcium lactate is C6H10CaO6.
Calcium lactate is a white crystalline salt derived from lactic acid, primarily known for its use as a food additive and a dietary calcium supplement. Its precise chemical formula, C6H10CaO6, is fundamental to understanding its composition, properties, and diverse applications across various industries.
Decoding the Chemical Formula
The formula C6H10CaO6 meticulously outlines the atomic structure of calcium lactate. It indicates that each molecule of calcium lactate consists of specific numbers of carbon, hydrogen, calcium, and oxygen atoms.
| Element | Chemical Symbol | Number of Atoms |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon | C | 6 |
| Hydrogen | H | 10 |
| Calcium | Ca | 1 |
| Oxygen | O | 6 |
This composition shows that calcium lactate is an organic salt, specifically a calcium salt of lactic acid. The structure incorporates two lactate ions, each containing three carbon atoms, five hydrogen atoms, and three oxygen atoms, which are then bonded to a single calcium ion.
Key Characteristics and Applications
Understanding the chemical formula of calcium lactate, C6H10CaO6, provides insight into its functional properties, making it a valuable compound in many fields.
- Dietary Calcium Source: As an effective source of easily absorbed calcium, it is widely used in supplements to support bone health and prevent deficiencies.
- Food Additive: In the food industry, it serves multiple roles, including:
- A firming agent in fruits and vegetables, maintaining their texture.
- A leavening agent in baked goods.
- An acidity regulator in various products.
- A thickener and stabilizer.
- Pharmaceutical Use: It is incorporated into medications and oral rehydration solutions due to its bioavailability and mild taste.
- Biocompatibility: Its organic nature and solubility contribute to its general acceptance and effectiveness in biological systems.
Why the Chemical Formula Matters
Knowing the exact chemical formula for calcium lactate is critical for several practical reasons:
- Compositional Accuracy: It defines the precise elemental ratios, which are essential for quality control during manufacturing and synthesis.
- Dosage and Nutritional Value: For dietary supplements, the formula allows for accurate calculation of the elemental calcium content per dose, crucial for effective supplementation and nutritional labeling.
- Chemical Reactivity: The formula helps predict how calcium lactate will interact with other substances in various chemical reactions, whether in industrial processes or within biological systems.
- Regulatory Compliance: It is a fundamental piece of information required for product registration, safety data sheets, and regulatory approvals in the food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries.
Calcium lactate's widespread use as a safe and effective compound in food, pharmaceuticals, and dietary supplements underscores the importance of clearly defined chemical information, epitomized by its formula, C6H10CaO6.
