What is the common name for 2 hydroxy propanoic acid?

Hint: 2 hydroxy propanoic acids belong to the class of alpha-hydroxy acid or AHA. These acids are also very commonly found in milk and it is also a by-product of anaerobic respiration.

Complete Step by Step Solution:
2-Hydroxy propanoic acid is also known as lactic acid or milk acid as it is very commonly found in milk. It is the by-product that is formed during the anaerobic respiration, formed by the bacteria present in the yoghurt and is also found in the gut and blood of human beings. It is an organic acid that has two isomers, L-lactic acid, and D-lactic acid, out of which L isomers are commonly found in living organisms. A carboxyl group exists adjacent to the hydroxyl group that makes the 2 hydroxy propanoic acid a type of alpha hydroxy acid.

This acid forms an important part of the various biochemical processes and is also formed in the muscles during intense muscular activity. Lactic acid is highly soluble in water and occurs in a colourless form in the liquid state and in a white-colored form in the solid-state. The soluble salt form of lactic acid which is also known as calcium lactate also serves as a great source of calcium.

Note: Lactic acid is produced in the body however there are numerous uses of lactic acid because of which it is also produced industrially. It is used in the process of fermentation, for the preservation of food, dairy products, manufacturing of various medicines, cleaning and laundry products etc.