maleic acid

[muh-lee-ik]

noun

Chemistry.

1. a colorless, crystalline, water-soluble solid, C 4 H 4 O 4 , isomeric with fumaric acid, having an astringent, repulsive taste and faint acidulous odor: used in the manufacture of synthetic resins, the dyeing and finishing of textiles, and as a preservative for fats and oils.

maleic acid

/ məˈleɪɪk /

noun

1. Systematic name: cis-butanedioic acid. a colourless soluble crystalline substance used to synthesize other compounds. Formula: HOOCCH:CHCOOH

maleic acid

1. A colorless crystalline acid used in textile processing and as an oil and fat preservative. Maleic acid is a geometric isomer of fumaric acid, having two carboxyl groups (COOH) on the same side of an ethylene chain. Chemical formula: C ₄ H ₄ O ₄ .

Word History and Origins

Origin of maleic acid¹

1870–75; < French maléique, alteration of malique malic

Word History and Origins

Origin of maleic acid¹

C19: from French maléique, altered form of malique; see _{malic acid}

Example Sentences

The styrene–maleic acid copolymer: a versatile tool in membrane research.

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Consuming high levels of maleic acid can cause kidney damage.

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Singapore's Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority has recalled 11 types of tapioca starch balls made in Taiwan that are used in popular 'bubble teas', after they were found to contain maleic acid.

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