Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
Other Names: Pteroylglutamic acid, Folate, Vitamin M, Vitamin B9

CAS Number: 59-30-3
Sum Formula: C₁₉H₁₉N₇O₆
Molar Mass: 441.40 g/mol
Appearance: Yellow to orange-yellow crystalline powder

Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, a water-soluble B vitamin. It contains a pteridine ring linked to para-aminobenzoic acid and glutamic acid. It is crucial in single-carbon transfer reactions and is widely used in chemical, biochemical, and technical research focusing on nucleic acid synthesis and repair.

Chemical and Physical Properties
Density: ~1.68 g/cm³ (estimated)
Melting Point: 250–260°C (decomposes)
Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes)
Solubility in Water: Slightly soluble (~1.6 mg/L at 25°C)
Solubility in Other Solvents: Practically insoluble in alcohol, chloroform, and ether; soluble in dilute alkali
Odor: Odorless

Applications
Biochemical Research: Used in studies of DNA and RNA synthesis, methylation reactions, and enzyme mechanisms involving tetrahydrofolate derivatives.
Organic Synthesis: Applied in the preparation of functionalized pteridine compounds and folate analogues.
Analytical Chemistry: Employed in assays for folate metabolism and cofactor activity.
Polymer and Material Science: Investigated for conjugation to polymers and nanoparticles in biotechnical applications.

Safety

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 92.6% (188 of 203) of all reports.

Handling and Storage
Storage Conditions: Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and dark place. Protect from moisture, heat, and light, as folic acid is sensitive to degradation under ultraviolet radiation.
Handling Precautions: Avoid dust generation. Use proper PPE and handle with standard laboratory or industrial precautions.