"On Glycolic Acid"

Glycolic acid is an organic acid. It is a substance and has unique properties.

Glycolic acid, the molecular formula is $C_2H_4O_3 $, and the structural formula is $HOCH_2COOH $. Looking at its structure, it has both hydroxyl groups connected and carboxyl groups. The coexistence of these two gives glycolic acid different chemical properties.

Carboxyl group is the source of acidity. Glycolic acid can be neutralized with the base phase due to carboxyl groups to form corresponding salts and water. If it reacts with sodium hydroxide to obtain sodium glycolate and water, this is a common case of acid-base neutralization.

The side of the hydroxyl group also adds its energy. Hydroxyl groups are active and can participate in many reactions. If under suitable conditions, they can esterify with alcohols to form esters, which may have a different aroma or have specific uses in industry and life.

And glycolic acid has its functions in many fields. In the field of daily chemistry, because of its mild acidity, it can be used as an ingredient in skin care products. It can gently remove the aging keratin on the surface of the skin, making the skin radiant and smooth again.

In industrial production, it is also indispensable. It can be used as a metal cleaning agent, using its acidity to react with metal surface oxides to achieve the purpose of cleaning, and it is relatively mild and does not over-corrode metals.

And in chemical synthesis, it is often an important intermediate. With its unique structure, it can undergo various reactions to build complex organic molecules, paving the way for the creation of new substances.

Although glycolic acid is a microscopic substance, it has unique properties and is widely used. It has significant effects in life, industry, scientific research and other aspects. It is a compound that cannot be underestimated.