Question

Citric acid is a weak organic acid.

(a) True

(b) False

I got this question during an interview for a job.

Asked question is from Aerobic Bioprocesses in chapter Mixed Cultures & Traditional Industrial Bioprocesses of Bioprocess Engineering

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(a) True

Explanation:

Citric acid (C₆H₈O₇) is indeed a weak organic acid. It is commonly found in citrus fruits and is used in various industrial applications, including the production of food, beverages, and as a preservative. As a weak acid, citric acid does not completely dissociate into ions in water, unlike strong acids (e.g., hydrochloric acid), which dissociate completely.

In bioprocessing, citric acid is also produced by microorganisms, particularly Aspergillus niger, during aerobic fermentation processes, making it an important compound in both the food industry and in various biotechnological applications.

Thus, citric acid is classified as a weak organic acid, and the statement is true.