What is benzilic acid?

Benzilic acid, also known as 2-hydroxy-2-phenylacetic acid, is a type of organic compound with the chemical formula C14H12O3. It is derived from benzil through a rearrangement reaction known as benzilic acid rearrangement.

Benzilic acid is a white solid that is slightly soluble in water and soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone. It has a sweet taste and is commonly used in the production of various pharmaceuticals, dyes, and perfumes.

One of the key reactions involving benzilic acid is the formation of dibenzoyl tartaric acid, which is used as a chiral resolving agent in the synthesis of enantiomerically pure compounds.

Overall, benzilic acid is an important compound in organic chemistry with various industrial and pharmaceutical applications.