The new name for L-hexuronic acid is derived from a - ( meaning `` no '' ) and scorbutus ( scurvy ) , the disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C. Because it is derived from glucose , many animals are able to produce it , but humans require it as part of their nutrition .
Ascorbic acid is one form of vitamin C , and was historically the first chemical compound to be synthesized , and identified , as vitamin C . The name is derived from a - ( meaning `` no '' ) and scorbutus ( scurvy ) , the disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C.