Definition

Relating to a chemical compound that has three carboxyl groups in its structure.

Example

Citric acid is a tricarboxylic acid found in citrus fruits.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new study on tricarboxylic acids?

Yeah, I read that they play a huge role in metabolism.

Exactly! It's fascinating how tricarboxylic compounds can influence energy production.

Definitely! I never knew chemistry could be so interesting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tricarboxylic → It is formed from "tri-" (meaning three), "carboxyl" (from the Greek "karbōn" meaning carbon and "oxys" meaning acid), and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to). The word refers to a compound that contains three carboxyl groups, which are functional groups consisting of carbon and oxygen atoms.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tri-' meaning three, and 'carboxyl' referring to a type of acid containing carbon. This helps you remember that 'tricarboxylic' describes a compound with three of these acid groups.

Visually Confused Words