Disodium Fumarate: The Most Common Alternative Name
The most frequently used alternative name for sodium fumarate is disodium fumarate. The prefix 'di-' explicitly refers to the presence of two sodium ions ($Na^+$) attached to the fumarate ion, which is derived from fumaric acid. This name is prevalent in scientific literature and commercial specifications because it provides a more precise description of the compound's chemical structure.
The full chemical name for this substance is disodium (2E)-but-2-enedioate, which specifies the trans isomerism of the double bond in the carbon chain. While this IUPAC name is chemically accurate, the shorter, more accessible term 'disodium fumarate' is widely accepted in various industries, from food manufacturing to cosmetic production.
Additional Synonyms and Identifiers
Beyond disodium fumarate, the compound can be identified by other names and codes, which are useful for sourcing and regulatory purposes. These names often appear on product data sheets and in databases, confirming the substance's identity across different jurisdictions and industries.
- Fumaric acid disodium salt: This name clearly states the chemical origin and composition of the compound, identifying it as a salt derived from fumaric acid with two sodium ions.
- Sodium fumarate dibasic: This term indicates that the dibasic acid (fumaric acid) has been neutralized by sodium to form the salt.
- E-365 and INS-365: These are functional and food additive codes used primarily in the European Union (E-number) and the International Numbering System (INS) for food additives. They classify the compound based on its functional use as an acidity regulator and flavour enhancer.
Comparison: Sodium Fumarate vs. Other Fumarates
It is important to differentiate sodium fumarate (disodium fumarate) from other related compounds to avoid confusion in applications. Below is a comparison table highlighting key differences.
| Feature | Sodium Fumarate (Disodium Fumarate) | Monosodium Fumarate | Ferrous Fumarate | Sodium Stearyl Fumarate (SSF) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | $C_4H_2Na_2O_4$ | $C_4H_3NaO_4$ | $C_4H_2FeO_4$ | $C{22}H{39}NaO_4$ |
| Number of Sodium Ions | Two ($Na^+$) | One ($Na^+$) | None (contains iron) | One ($Na^+$) |
| Primary Function | Acidity regulator, buffering agent | Acidity regulator, buffering agent | Iron supplement | Pharmaceutical lubricant |
| Industrial Use | Food, cosmetics, microbiology | Food and beverages | Medicine, health supplements | Tablet manufacturing |
| Appearance | Odorless, white crystalline powder | White crystalline powder | Reddish-orange powder | Fine, white to off-white powder |
The Functionality and Uses Behind the Names
The various names for sodium fumarate often correlate with its specific applications. Its role as an acidity regulator and buffering agent in processed foods is well-documented. This functionality helps maintain a stable pH, which is critical for food preservation, flavour stability, and inhibiting microbial growth. In beverages like fruit drinks and wine, it helps stabilize color and taste.
In the cosmetic industry, it is utilized as a pH adjuster and a skin conditioning agent, helping to maintain the skin's natural pH balance. In microbiology, it can act as a terminal electron acceptor for cultivating certain anaerobic microorganisms. The pharmaceutical industry, while more commonly using sodium stearyl fumarate as a lubricant, also employs sodium fumarate in some formulations as a buffering agent.
Conclusion
In summary, the most common and accurate alternative name for sodium fumarate is disodium fumarate. This is because the compound consists of two sodium ions bonded with a fumarate ion, reflecting its chemical composition. Other synonyms like fumaric acid disodium salt, sodium fumarate dibasic, and food additive codes such as E-365 also serve to identify this versatile compound across various industrial and scientific contexts. Understanding these different names and their implications is key for anyone involved with the production or application of this important chemical substance.
Key takeaways
- Disodium Fumarate: This is the primary and most descriptive alternative name for sodium fumarate.
- Fumaric acid disodium salt: Another chemical name that specifies its salt form and parent acid.
- E-365: An official food additive code used in Europe to identify sodium fumarate.
- Acidity Regulator: In the food industry, sodium fumarate's function is to control acidity and maintain pH balance.
- Buffering Agent: In cosmetics, it is used to adjust pH and condition the skin.
- Not a Pharmaceutical Lubricant: It is important to distinguish it from sodium stearyl fumarate, a similar but functionally different compound.
FAQs
- Is sodium fumarate the same as disodium fumarate? Yes, sodium fumarate is the same as disodium fumarate. The names are often used interchangeably in different industries, with 'disodium fumarate' offering a more specific chemical description of the compound.
- What is fumaric acid disodium salt? Fumaric acid disodium salt is another name for sodium fumarate or disodium fumarate, emphasizing its origin as the disodium salt of fumaric acid.
- What is the E-number for sodium fumarate? Sodium fumarate is identified by the food additive code E-365 in the European Union.
- What is the difference between sodium fumarate and sodium stearyl fumarate? Sodium fumarate is a simple inorganic salt, while sodium stearyl fumarate (SSF) is a more complex organic compound that includes a stearyl group. SSF is primarily used as a lubricant in pharmaceutical tablets, while sodium fumarate is used as an acidity regulator and buffering agent.
- What are the primary uses of sodium fumarate? Its primary uses include acting as an acidity regulator in foods, a pH adjuster and buffering agent in cosmetics, and a terminal electron acceptor in specific microbiological applications.
- Is sodium fumarate soluble in water? Yes, sodium fumarate is soluble in water, appearing as an odorless, white crystalline powder.
- Why is it sometimes called 'sodium fumarate dibasic'? The term 'dibasic' refers to the parent acid, fumaric acid, which has two acidic protons. 'Dibasic' indicates that both of these protons have been replaced by sodium ions to form the salt.
