Kind of acid in lemons (6) Crossword Clue
Answer: CITRIC
The crossword clue Kind of acid in lemons (6) has the answer CITRIC. Citric acid is the naturally occurring acid found in lemons and other citrus fruits, responsible for their tart taste. It plays a crucial role in the biochemical processes of living organisms and is commonly used in food and beverages as a preservative and flavoring agent.
Understanding Citric Acid: The Natural Preservative in Lemons
- Citric acid is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits, with lemons containing the highest concentration at approximately 5-6% of their juice content.
- This naturally occurring compound gives lemons their characteristic sour taste and serves multiple functions in both biological systems and commercial applications.
- Citric acid (C₆H₈O₇) is a tricarboxylic acid that plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism through the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle.
- In lemons and other citrus fruits, this acid serves as a natural defense mechanism against bacteria and fungi while contributing to the fruit's distinctive flavor profile.
Related Crossword Terms
- SOUR - describes the taste
- TART - another taste descriptor
- LEMON - primary source
- ACIDIC - chemical property
- TANGY - flavor characteristic
Tips for Crossword Solvers
- Look for letter count clues - "Kind of acid" with six letters almost always points to CITRIC in crossword contexts.
- Consider crossing letters - The C, I, T, R, I, C pattern fits well with common crossword letter combinations.
- Think beyond lemons - While lemons are mentioned, citric acid appears in many fruits, so don't limit your thinking to just one source.
- Remember the double 'I' - CITRIC contains two I's, which can help when working with intersecting answers.
Kind of acid in lemons (6) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q:What makes citric acid different from other acids?
A: Citric acid is a weak organic acid, unlike strong mineral acids. It's naturally occurring, biodegradable, and safe for food consumption, making it ideal for culinary and household uses.
Q:Can you taste citric acid in foods?
A: Yes, citric acid provides the sharp, tangy flavor in sour candies, soft drinks, and citrus fruits. Its sourness is immediately recognizable and pleasant in moderate concentrations.
Q:Is synthetic citric acid the same as natural?
A: Chemically, synthetic and natural citric acid are identical. Both have the same molecular structure and properties, though natural sources may contain trace amounts of other compounds.
Q:Why do crossword puzzles frequently use CITRIC?
A: The word CITRIC is popular in crosswords because it's exactly six letters, commonly known, and connects to everyday items like lemons and food products that most solvers recognize.
