The main difference between tannin and tannic acid is that the term tannin is used to name a group of organic compounds, whereas tannic acid is a type of tannin.
Tannins are organic compounds that fall under the category of polyphenols. These compounds contain several phenol groups in the same molecule. Tannic acid is a special type of tannin. Tannins occur mainly in plant tissues; therefore, we can name them as polyphenol biomolecules.
Definition The term tannin refers to a group of polyphenols that can bind with proteins and precipitate them, while tannic acid is an organic molecule having the chemical formula C76H52O46.
Properties Tannin is characterized by the presence of several phenyl groups, astringency, acidity, etc. while tannic acid is characterized by weak acidity, solubility in water, etc.
Uses Furthermore, tannin plays an important role in providing protection to the plants from predation and helps the regulation of plant growth. Tannic acid, on the other hand, can be applied to wood that is low in tannin, which helps to react with chemical stains, and can be added as a mordent for dye production, etc.
Conclusion To recap, the tannic acid is a special type of tannin. It is an organic molecule similar to the other members in the group of tannins. Therefore, the main difference between tannin and tannic acid is that the term tannin is used to name a group of organic compounds whereas tannic acid is a type of tannin.
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