PROPIONATE Meaning and
Definition
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Propionate is a noun that refers to a class of chemical compounds that contain the propionic acid as their base. It is derived from the word "propionic," which is indicative of its origin from propionic acid. Propionic acid is a carboxylic acid with three carbon atoms, and it is commonly found in nature as a byproduct of the fermentation process in certain bacteria.
Propionate compounds are widely used in various industries, including food and pharmaceuticals. In the food industry, they serve as food additives to enhance the flavor and prolong the shelf life of products. For instance, calcium propionate is a commonly used preservative in bread and other baked goods to prevent mold growth.
In the pharmaceutical industry, propionate compounds are utilized as active ingredients or excipients in the formulation of drugs. They may act as antimicrobial agents, helping to prevent contamination and stabilize the medication. These compounds can also assist in enhancing drug absorption, solubility, or bioavailability.
Additionally, propionate compounds have applications in the agricultural sector, where they are used as feed additives for livestock. The aim is to improve animal health, increase weight gain, and prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms in animal feed.
Overall, propionate refers to a chemically diverse group of compounds that find extensive usage in various industries due to their preservative, pharmaceutical, and agricultural properties.
Common Misspellings for PROPIONATE
Etymology of PROPIONATE
The word "propionate" comes from the combination of the words "propionic" and "-ate".
The term "propionic" originates from the Latin word "propionicus", which is derived from the Greek words "pro" meaning "before" or "in favor of" and "piōn" meaning "fat" or "grease". The term was first used in the mid-19th century by chemists to describe a fatty acid derived from propionic acid.
The suffix "-ate" in chemistry is often used to designate the salt or ester of an acid. In the case of "propionate", it refers to the salt or ester form of propionic acid.
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