Pentanoic acid is also known as valeric acid. It is a carboxylic acid with the formula C5H9COOH and is named after the valerian plant from which it was first isolated. Other synonyms for pentanoic acid include n-pentanoic acid, propylacetic acid, and 1-pentanoic acid. In the food industry, it is sometimes known as cooking vinegar due to its similar acidic and aromatic properties to vinegar. Pentanoic acid is a colorless liquid that is soluble in water and can be found in various dairy products, such as cheese and butter. It is also used in the manufacturing of various chemicals and drugs.