butyric acid

(organic chemistry) Either of the two isomeric carboxylic acids, normal butyric acid and isobutyric acid, with the chemical formula C₃H₇COOH, occurring in animal milk fat.

(organic chemistry) Solely the straight chain isomer of the above, normal butyric acid or n-butyric acid, CH₃(CH₂)₂COOH, a short chain fatty acid; its glyceride is one of the principle components of the flavour of butter.