Benzoic Acid
Benzoic acid, the best known aromatic acid (figure 10.16), is a solid (m.p. 1210C). Combined with sodium, it has antibacterial properties and is a common food additive for that reason. Sodium benzoate is also used as a rust end mildew inhibitor. Benzoic acid itself is used in the manufacture of perfumes, flavors, medicines, plasticizers, dentifrices, and polymers.