Updated Feb 20, 20251 min readAlso known as: ascorbic acid
vitamin c, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for normal growth and development. it is known for its antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from damage by free radicals. vitamin c is crucial for the biosynthesis of collagen, L-carnitine, and certain neurotransmitters. it also aids in the absorption of non-heme iron, the form of iron present in plant-based foods.
chemical properties
molecular weight: 176.12 g/mol
density: 1.65 g/cm³
boiling point: decomposes before boiling
solubility: highly soluble in water
optical rotation: +20.5° (c=10, H₂O)
chemical formula: C₆H₈O₆
usefulness in medicine
vitamin c is widely recognized for its role in preventing and treating scurvy, a disease resulting from a deficiency of vitamin c. it is also used to boost the immune system, reduce the duration of common colds, and improve skin health by promoting collagen formation.