Glycerol Formula (C3H8O3) - Structure, Applications with FAQs

Q: What is the structure and IUPAC name of glycerol?

Glycerol molecular formula or chemical formula is C 3 H 8 O 3 . The structure can be elaborated simply as - CH 2 -OH-CH 2 -OH-CH 2 -OH. The IUPAC name of glycerol is 1,2,3-Trihydroxypropane or Propane-1,2,3-triol.

Glycerol Formula (C3H8O3) - Structure, Applications with FAQs

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 04:54 PM IST

Introduction
We all know how organic compounds are play an important role in our lives. Organic compounds are chemical combinations of elements; specifically carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Here, one or more carbon atoms are covalently linked to the atoms of other elements to form a relevant structure. The carbon atoms provide an important structural framework that generates a substantial range of organic compounds.

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Glycerol structure:
Glycerine formula
Glyceraldehyde formula
Glyceraldehyde applications

Depending upon the range of combinations formed through various reactions, organic compounds are classified into various categories. They can be alcohols, carboxylic acids, esters, ethers, fats, lipids, etc.

Let us learn about lipids before moving towards glycerol.

Lipids are a class of organic compounds comprising of elements like carbon, hydrogen, oxygen respectively. Lipids are soluble in nonpolar organic solvents but are insoluble in water unlike other organic compounds like alcohols, acids, etc. They are mainly formed of hydrocarbon chains and are usually characterized by their solubility in nonpolar solvents and solubility in water. Lipids are not polymers and hence that lack a monomeric unit but are made up of two molecules:

Glycerol
Fatty acids

Glycerol is also referred as glycerine.

Also read -

Glycerol structure:

Glycerol is a colourless, odourless, viscous liquid sweet to taste and non-poisonous. By vicious, it means that the glycerol molecule is liquid having thick and slimy consistency. The glycerol spine is obtained from lipids called as glycerides. Glycerol have antimicrobial and antiviral properties therefore used for burn treatments.

Glycerine formula

The glycerol chemical formula is C₃H₈O₃. The glycerol structure and its appearance are provided below:

Glycerol structural formula and glycerol appearance:-

Glycerol structural formula and glycerol appearance

Glycerol is often referred to as glycerin or glycerine where each carbon atom is attached to a hydroxyl group. Glycerol molar mass is 92.09 g/mol. Hence, it is a polyol group as it comprises more than one hydroxyl group. The hydroxyl groups linked to the carbon atoms makes the glycerol molecule water-soluble. These hydroxyl groups are also responsible for their hygroscopic character.

Glycerol, glycerin, trihydroxypropane are the most common terms used to refer the compound. The IUPAC name of glycerol is propane-1,2,3-triol.
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This is because of the presence of glycerol (or glycerin) in these products. Glycerol is utilized in skincare and haircare products. Herbal products have herbal extracts as their primary content. While extracting these extracts or fluids from plants and/or herbs the solvent used is glycerol to extract enzymes from the plants or herbs. These extracts are further added to hair care and skin care products.

Glycerol vs Glycerin:

Glycerin chemical formula is the same as glycerol. Glycerol i.e C₃H₈O₃. The main difference between glycerin and glycerol is that glycerol is present in its pure form while glycerin is 95% glycerol. Though the glycerin structural formula and glycerin molecular formula is the same as that of glycerol cannot be preferred interchangeably for their applications in specific areas.

The commercial name for glycerol is glycerin containing 95% of glycerol. Glycerol and glycerin are two different solutions with the same chemical formula. Glycerol is usually used for internal treatments while glycerin is used for external purposes.

The IUPAC name of glycerin is the same as glycerol i.e. propane-1,2,3-triol. The main application of glycerin is in the cosmetic industry. It is widely used as the main ingredient in fragrances, moisturisers and lotions. The main reason to use glycerin in the cosmetic industry is that it provides hydration to the skin, helps in the healing process of minor skin injuries, improves skin mechanical functions, etc.

Glycerin is a humectant form of the moisturizing agent which attracts water from the deeper layers of pores and skin to the uppermost layer of pores and skin which presents hydration to the top layer of pores and skin. Glycerin is secure for intake to sure limits and as it's far used for sweetening, for thickening or as a preservative in several recipes.

Related Topics Link,

Glycerol emerges as triglycerides and is obtained from plants and animals. Following procedures yield glycerol as a major product:-

Hydrolysis
Transesterification
Saponification

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Triglycerides (fats) in the presence of acid and heat or under suitable lipase enzymes are hydrolyzed and yield glycerol and fatty acids.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides hydrolysis is also carried out in the presence of a base which is usually followed in the industries. Saponification is a process where neutralization and hydrolysis are carried out simultaneously yielding soap.

Triglycerides

Also, students can refer,

Glyceraldehyde formula

Glycerol or glyceraldehyde is a triose monosaccharide having formula C₃H₆O₃. Glyceraldehyde is one of the simplest aldoses in its class. It is an intermediate compound in the metabolism of carbohydrates.

Glyceraldehyde is a sweet and colourless solid having a crystalline structure. The IUPAC name of glyceraldehyde is 2,3-dihydroxypropanal. The molecular weight of glyceraldehyde is 90.08 g/mol.

Glyceraldehyde, Glycerol, Glyceric aldehyde are other common terms used to refer the chemical compound.

Glyceraldehyde structure is nothing but glycerol with a hydroxyl group oxidised to aldehyde. Hence the name glyceraldehyde is derived from glycerol and converted to aldehyde through oxidation. The glyceraldehyde structure is given below:

glyceraldehyde structure

Glyceraldehyde is bonded or linked to four different groups specifying that it has a chiral centre. Therefore it occurs as enantiomers having contrary optical rotation.

The following table represents the enantiomers form of glyceraldehyde:

	D-glyceraldehyde	L-glyceraldehyde
Fisher projection

The D form and L form of glyceraldehyde are for (R) and (S) enantiomers respectively.

Glyceraldehyde can be prepared by favourable oxidation of glycerol in presence of hydrogen peroxide and the catalyst used is ferrous salt. Dihydroxyacetone is also formed along with glyceraldehyde as they both are isomers of each other.

Glyceraldehyde applications

Glyceraldehyde is used to prepare polyesters and adhesives.
Applies as a cellular modifier.
Used in the tanning of leather.
D-glyceraldehyde is used as a reference chemical in several biochemical techniques.

Also check-

NCERT Chemistry Notes:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the structure and IUPAC name of glycerol?

Glycerol molecular formula or chemical formula is C₃H₈O₃. The structure can be elaborated simply as - CH₂-OH-CH₂-OH-CH₂-OH. The IUPAC name of glycerol is 1,2,3-Trihydroxypropane or Propane-1,2,3-triol.

2. Glycerol is a derivative of which alkane?

Glycerol is a derivative of propane having an IUPAC name propane-1,2,3-triol.

3. Which substitute is favoured against glycerin?

The glycerin substitute used is Propylene glycol. Propylene glycol resembles glycerin in many properties like being a humectant, moisturizing abilities. It is also known as PG and is used as an ingredient in cosmetic products.

4. Which eatables contains glycerol?

Oats, rice, precooked pasta and rice are some of the foodstuffs containing glycerol as a component.

5. What is the difference between glycerol and fatty acid?

A long chain of hydrocarbons linked to the carboxyl group is a fatty acid whereas glycerin is an organic chemical compound with three carbon atoms attached to or bonded with three hydroxyl groups.

6. State the uses of glycerol.

Glycerol is used to prepare enamels and house paints. It is also applied as a stabilizer in ice creams.

Significantly it is utilized to frost red blood cells, cornea, sperm cells, etc.

7. Define Glycerin?

Glycerin is a lotion containing 95% glycerol. It is hygroscopic capable of absorbing plenty of moisture and hence used in a majority of moisturizing lotions and shaving creams.

8. What are the other terms used to refer to glycerin?

Thymol, glycerol, glycerin, dimethicone, squalane, phenoxyethanol, menthol, glyceride, citric-acid, propylparaben and Cyclomethicone are some of the terms used to refer glycerin.

9. How does glycerol contribute to the properties of soaps and cosmetics?

Glycerol acts as a humectant in soaps and cosmetics, helping to retain moisture. Its hygroscopic nature allows products to stay moist and prevents them from drying out, enhancing their texture and effectiveness.

10. Why is glycerol used in antifreeze solutions?

Glycerol lowers the freezing point of water when mixed with it. This property, along with its low toxicity compared to other antifreeze agents, makes it useful in antifreeze solutions for automotive and other applications.

11. Why is glycerol used in pharmaceutical formulations?

Glycerol is used in pharmaceuticals due to its ability to act as a solvent, sweetener, and preservative. Its hygroscopic nature also helps prevent medications from drying out and maintains their consistency.

12. What is the role of glycerol in lipid structures?

Glycerol serves as the backbone of triglycerides and phospholipids. Its three hydroxyl groups can form ester bonds with fatty acids to create these more complex lipid molecules.

13. Why is glycerol considered a versatile industrial chemical?

Glycerol's unique combination of properties - hygroscopicity, solubility in water and many organic solvents, and chemical reactivity due to its hydroxyl groups - makes it useful in a wide range of industrial applications.

14. What is the role of glycerol in the metabolism of living organisms?

In living organisms, glycerol serves as a precursor for the synthesis of triglycerides and phospholipids. It's also involved in energy metabolism, as it can be converted to glucose through gluconeogenesis.

15. Why is glycerol considered both an alcohol and a sugar alcohol?

Glycerol is considered an alcohol because it contains hydroxyl (-OH) groups. It's also classified as a sugar alcohol because its structure is similar to that of sugars, though it doesn't have an aldehyde or ketone group.

16. What is the relationship between glycerol and glycerin?

Glycerol and glycerin are the same compound. Glycerol is the scientific name, while glycerin (or glycerine) is a common commercial name used for the same substance.

17. How does glycerol's structure allow it to act as an emollient?

Glycerol's hydroxyl groups can form hydrogen bonds with water in the outer layer of skin, helping to keep it hydrated. This moisturizing effect makes glycerol an effective emollient in skincare products.

18. What is the role of glycerol in the production of synthetic polymers?

Glycerol can serve as a monomer or starting material for various synthetic polymers. Its three hydroxyl groups allow for multiple points of reaction, enabling the formation of complex polymer structures.

19. What is the molecular formula of glycerol?

The molecular formula of glycerol is C3H8O3. This means it contains 3 carbon atoms, 8 hydrogen atoms, and 3 oxygen atoms.

20. Why is glycerol considered a polyol?

Glycerol is considered a polyol because it contains multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups. Specifically, glycerol has three hydroxyl groups attached to its carbon chain.

21. What is the IUPAC name for glycerol?

The IUPAC name for glycerol is propane-1,2,3-triol. This name indicates it's a three-carbon chain (propane) with hydroxyl groups on all three carbon atoms.

22. How does glycerol differ from other common alcohols like ethanol?

Unlike simpler alcohols like ethanol (C2H5OH) which have only one hydroxyl group, glycerol has three hydroxyl groups. This gives glycerol unique properties such as higher viscosity and boiling point.

23. How does the structure of glycerol contribute to its properties?

Glycerol's structure, with three hydroxyl groups, allows it to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. This gives glycerol its hygroscopic nature (ability to absorb moisture) and high solubility in water.

24. Why is glycerol used in the production of explosives like nitroglycerin?

Glycerol's three hydroxyl groups can be replaced with nitrate groups to form nitroglycerin. The resulting molecule is unstable and releases a large amount of energy when detonated, making it useful as an explosive.

25. What is the significance of glycerol in the production of alkyd resins?

Glycerol is a key component in the production of alkyd resins, which are used in paints and varnishes. Its three hydroxyl groups allow it to form ester linkages with dicarboxylic acids, creating the polymer structure of the resin.

26. What is the role of glycerol in the production of resins for surface coatings?

Glycerol's three hydroxyl groups allow it to react with acids to form polyester resins. These resins are used in surface coatings like paints and varnishes, where glycerol contributes to properties such as flexibility and durability.

27. What is the significance of glycerol's three hydroxyl groups?

The three hydroxyl groups in glycerol allow it to form multiple hydrogen bonds, contributing to its high boiling point, hygroscopic nature, and ability to act as a humectant (moisture-retaining agent).

28. How does glycerol's structure affect its melting and boiling points?

Glycerol's three hydroxyl groups allow for extensive hydrogen bonding between molecules, resulting in higher melting and boiling points compared to hydrocarbons or simpler alcohols of similar molecular weight.

29. How does glycerol's structure allow it to act as a plasticizer?

Glycerol's small molecular size and multiple hydroxyl groups allow it to insert between polymer chains, increasing their flexibility. This plasticizing effect is useful in various industries, including food and pharmaceuticals.

30. How does glycerol's structure affect its viscosity?

Glycerol's three hydroxyl groups form strong hydrogen bonds between molecules, resulting in high viscosity. This property makes it useful as a thickening agent in various products.

31. What role does glycerol play in the production of biodiesel?

Glycerol is a byproduct of biodiesel production. When vegetable oils or animal fats react with an alcohol (usually methanol) to produce biodiesel, glycerol is released from the triglyceride molecules.

32. How does glycerol contribute to the texture of food products?

Glycerol acts as a humectant in foods, helping to retain moisture and prevent drying out. It also contributes to a smooth, creamy texture in many products due to its viscosity and ability to dissolve both water-soluble and fat-soluble ingredients.

33. What is the significance of glycerol in the soap-making process?

In soap-making, glycerol is naturally produced as a byproduct of the saponification reaction between fats/oils and lye. It contributes to the moisturizing properties of soap and is sometimes deliberately left in or added to soap for its beneficial effects on skin.

34. How does glycerol's structure affect its freezing point?

Glycerol has a relatively low freezing point of about 17.8°C (64°F). This is due to the difficulty in forming an ordered crystal structure, caused by the multiple hydroxyl groups and their ability to form hydrogen bonds in various orientations.

35. Why is glycerol used in the production of printing inks?

Glycerol is used in printing inks as a humectant and to control viscosity. It helps prevent the ink from drying out too quickly on the printing plate or in the ink fountain, ensuring smooth and consistent printing.

36. How does glycerol's structure allow it to act as a stabilizer in frozen foods?

Glycerol's ability to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules interferes with ice crystal formation. This helps maintain the texture and quality of frozen foods by preventing large ice crystals that can damage cell structures.

37. How does glycerol's structure allow it to act as a coupling agent in some chemical reactions?

Glycerol's structure, with both hydrophilic (hydroxyl groups) and hydrophobic (carbon chain) portions, allows it to interact with both polar and non-polar substances. This makes it useful as a coupling agent to bring together reactants that might not otherwise mix well.

38. Why is glycerol used in some dental care products?

Glycerol is used in toothpastes and mouthwashes for its sweetening and moisturizing properties. It helps maintain the consistency of the product, prevents it from drying out, and contributes to a pleasant taste without promoting tooth decay.

39. How does glycerol contribute to the sweetness of foods?

Glycerol has a sweet taste, about 60% as sweet as sucrose (table sugar). Its hydroxyl groups interact with taste receptors on the tongue, producing a sweet sensation without the calories of sugar.

40. How does glycerol's structure allow it to act as a cryoprotectant?

Glycerol's ability to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules disrupts the formation of ice crystals. This property protects cells from damage during freezing, making glycerol useful in cryopreservation of biological samples.

41. How does glycerol's structure contribute to its use as a solvent?

Glycerol's polar hydroxyl groups make it miscible with water and able to dissolve many polar compounds. At the same time, its carbon chain gives it some ability to dissolve non-polar substances, making it a versatile solvent.

42. How does glycerol's structure affect its boiling point compared to water?

Glycerol has a much higher boiling point (290°C) than water (100°C) despite having a similar molecular weight. This is due to the stronger and more extensive hydrogen bonding between glycerol molecules, requiring more energy to separate them.

43. Why is glycerol used in electronic cigarettes?

Glycerol is used in e-cigarettes as a base for the liquid (along with propylene glycol). When heated, it produces a visible vapor that mimics smoke. Its sweet taste and low toxicity also contribute to its use in this application.

44. How does glycerol's structure allow it to act as a lubricant?

Glycerol's molecular structure, with its hydroxyl groups, allows it to form a thin, slippery film on surfaces. This film reduces friction between moving parts, making glycerol useful as a lubricant in various applications.

45. How does glycerol's structure contribute to its use as a plasticizer in the food industry?

Glycerol's small molecular size and hydroxyl groups allow it to insert between polymer chains in food products, increasing flexibility and preventing crystallization. This makes it useful in products like fondant and soft candies.

46. Why is glycerol used in the production of polyurethane foams?

Glycerol's three hydroxyl groups make it a useful polyol for reaction with isocyanates to form polyurethane. The resulting foam has applications in insulation, cushioning, and other areas where lightweight, flexible materials are needed.

47. How does glycerol's structure contribute to its use in suppositories?

Glycerol's ability to absorb water and its lubricating properties make it useful in suppositories. It can draw water into the rectal area, stimulating bowel movements, while its lubricating effect aids in the insertion and dissolution of the suppository.

48. What is the significance of glycerol in the production of cellophane?

Glycerol is used as a plasticizer in the production of cellophane. It helps to keep the cellulose-based film flexible and prevents it from becoming brittle, improving its usability in packaging applications.

49. How does glycerol's structure contribute to its use in air fresheners?

Glycerol's hygroscopic nature allows it to absorb and retain moisture from the air. In air fresheners, this property is used to help disperse fragrances more effectively and maintain a consistent scent release over time.

50. Why is glycerol used in the production of some types of paper?

Glycerol can be used as a plasticizer in paper production to improve flexibility and prevent brittleness. It can also help to retain moisture, which is particularly useful in specialty papers that need to maintain certain properties in varying humidity conditions.

51. How does glycerol's structure allow it to act as a preservative in some food products?

Glycerol's ability to bind water molecules reduces the water activity in foods. This creates an environment less favorable for microbial growth, helping to preserve the food. Additionally, its sweet taste can mask bitter flavors associated with some preservatives.

52. How does glycerol's structure contribute to its use in the textile industry?

Glycerol's hygroscopic nature and lubricating properties make it useful in textile processing. It can be used to condition fibers, improve fabric softness, and enhance the effectiveness of dyes and finishes by helping them penetrate the fabric more effectively.

53. Why is glycerol used in the production of some types of plastic?

Glycerol can be used as a building block for some biodegradable plastics. Its structure allows it to be incorporated into polymer chains, contributing to properties like flexibility and biodegradability in the final plastic product.

54. What is the significance of glycerol in the production of epoxy resins?

Glycerol can be used as a starting material for the production of epoxy resins. Its hydroxyl groups can be converted to epoxide groups, which then react to form the cross-linked structure characteristic of epoxy resins.

55. How does glycerol's structure contribute to its use in personal lubricants?

Glycerol's viscosity, slipperiness, and water-solubility make it an effective base for personal lubricants. Its hygroscopic nature helps maintain moisture, while its non-toxic and non-irritating properties make it safe for this sensitive application.

56. How does glycerol's structure allow it to act as a precursor for various chemical syntheses?

Glycerol's three hydroxyl groups provide multiple points for chemical reactions. These groups can be selectively oxidized, reduced, or replaced with other functional groups, making glycerol a versatile starting material for synthesizing many different compounds.

57. What is the role of glycerol in the production of some types of ink?

In ink production, glycerol serves as a humectant and solvent. It helps prevent the ink from drying out in the pen or printer cartridge, maintains consistent viscosity, and can help the ink flow smoothly during writing or printing.

58. How does glycerol's structure contribute to its use in the production of dynamite?

Glycerol is used to produce nitroglycerin, the main explosive component of dynamite. The three hydroxyl groups of glycerol are replaced with nitrate groups in this process, creating a molecule that releases a large amount of energy when detonated.