Ascorbic Acid is a water soluble vitamin used in a variety of applications but mainly it is used in dietary supplements to treat Vitamin C deficiency and to treat a variety of ailments, such as scurvy and the common cold. It is an essential nutrient involved in the repair of tissue and the enzymatic production of certain neurotransmitters and is required for the functioning of several enzymes. It is also important for immune system function and as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals.

Ascorbic acid occurs naturally in foods such as citrus fruit, tomatoes, potatoes, and leafy vegetables. It plays an important role in the body, needed to maintain the health of skin, teeth, bones and connective tissues, muscles, and blood vessels and helps the body absorb iron, which is needed for red blood cell production.

Ascorbic acid is produced commercially through fermentation. It occurs as a white or slightly yellow crystal or powder with a slight acidic taste. In the dry state, it is reasonably stable in air, but in solution it rapidly oxidizes.

It is freely soluble in water; sparingly soluble in alcohol; insoluble in chloroform, in ether, and in benzene.

Other names: Ascorbate, vitamin c, L-ascorbic acid

Formula: C6H806

Molecular weight is 176.13.