citric

Everyday

1. (science) To do with or coming from citrus fruits such as lemons, limes and oranges. tree →
2. Citric acid is a weak acid found in citrus fruits, which gives them their sour taste. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons citric acid is a safe, everyday acid: lemon juice turns blue litmus red; mixed with baking soda it fizzes, as in bath bombs and sherbet. In food, citric acid (E330) is added to sweets and drinks for a sour taste and to keep food fresh.

Examples

• Lemons taste sour because of citric acid. tree →
• Bath bombs fizz because citric acid reacts with baking soda. tree →
• Citric acid is added to sour sweets. tree →
• Our class tested citric acid with litmus paper. tree →
• Limes contain a lot of citric acid. tree →
• The label says «acid: citric acid». tree →

Note

Say «SIT-rik». Mostly used in «citric acid». From «citrus». Citric acid is a weak acid, but it can still sting eyes and cuts.