It occurs in free state in termind and as potassium hydrogen tartarate in various fruits like grapes, plums, berries, etc. Naturally occurring tartaric acid is always d-rotatory is important salts are
Sod. Pot. tartarate (Rochelle salt)
Pot. antimonyl tartarate (Tartar emetic)
Rochelle salt is used in the preparation of Fehling solution (CuSO4 + NaOH + sod. pot tartarate), Seidlitz powder (a laxative) and in silvering of mirror.
Tartar emetic is used to produce nausea and vomiting in the treatment of poisoning. It is al used as mordant in dyeing and calico printing.
Cream of tartar or argol (potassium hydrogen tartarate) is used in baking powder and dyeing.
