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Which acid is present in lemon juice?
Lactic acid
Citric acid
Acetic acid
Formic acid
Citric acid
Citric acid is a weak organic acid naturally found in high concentrations in citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges. It is the primary chemical compound responsible for the distinct sour taste and acidic nature of lemon juice.
Citric acid is a weak organic acid naturally found in high concentrations in citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges. It is the primary chemical compound responsible for the distinct sour taste and acidic nature of lemon juice.
Think of squeezing a fresh lemon over your food or into waterтАФthe sharp, refreshing tang and mouth-puckering sourness you immediately notice is the action of citric acid.
CITRUS: Citrus Is Tart, Rich Under Sun (Citric acid is found in citrus fruits).
C6тАЛH8тАЛO7тАЛ тАФ Chemical formula of citric acid
Citric acid (C6тАЛH8тАЛO7тАЛ) is a tricarboxylic acid featuring three carboxyl groups (тИТCOOH). When dissolved in water, these functional groups can donate protons (H+ ions), increasing the hydrogen ion concentration and creating an acidic solution that stimulates sour taste receptors.
Lemon juice contains approximately 5% to 6% citric acid by weight.
It is a weak organic acid and serves as a natural preservative.
Citric acid plays a vital role in the Krebs cycle (citric acid cycle) in cellular respiration.
Acts as a natural antioxidant and food preservative
Enhances flavor profile in various culinary and beverage applications
High acidity can erode tooth enamel if consumed in excess or undiluted
Food flavoring and preservation
Pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations
Citrus fruits are also excellent sources of Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid).
Option A (Lactic acid) is found in curd, Option C (Acetic acid) in vinegar, and Option D (Formic acid) in ant stings.
B is correct тАФ Lemon juice naturally contains citric acid, which imparts its characteristic sour flavor and acidity.
For competitive exams like RRB JE, always memorize common natural acid sources: vinegar contains acetic acid, curd contains lactic acid, and ant stings contain formic acid.