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terephthalic acid

chemical compound

Quick Summary

Terephthalic acid is a p-dicarboxylic acid with the chemical formula C8H6O4. It is derived from the oxidation of xylene and is primarily used in the synthesis of polyesters. Terephthalic acid is one of three important aromatic dicarboxylic acids, alongside isophthalic and phthalic acid, which are meta and ortho isomers, respectively. The para isomer, terephthalic acid, is crucial for creating polymers like polyesters.12

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