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Ethylnaphthalene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C12H12
CAS number
1127-76-0 / 939-27-5
IUPAC name
1-ethylnaphthalene;2-ethylnaphthalene
State
State

At room temperature, ethylnaphthalene is typically found in a liquid state. It exhibits the clear to slightly yellowish liquid form characteristic of many aromatic hydrocarbons.

Melting point (Celsius)
-34.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
239.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
266.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
539.15
General information
Molecular weight
156.22g/mol
Molar mass
156.2230g/mol
Density
0.9840g/cm3
Appearence

Ethylnaphthalene is an oily liquid that is clear to yellowish in color. It is known for its distinctive aromatic hydrocarbon odor, characteristic of petroleum-derived products.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 1-Ethylnaphthalene and 2-Ethylnaphthalene

Both 1-ethylnaphthalene and 2-ethylnaphthalene are organic compounds that exhibit interesting solubility characteristics.

General Solubility Features

  • Non-polar Nature: Both compounds are largely non-polar due to their hydrocarbon structure, which significantly affects their solubility in various solvents.
  • Hydrocarbon Solubility: 1-ethylnaphthalene and 2-ethylnaphthalene are highly soluble in non-polar solvents such as hexane, toluene, and other similar organic solvents.
  • Poor Water Solubility: These compounds have very low solubility in water, which is a common trait among non-polar substances. This implies that they do not readily dissolve in polar solvents like water.

Factors Influencing Solubility

Several factors can influence the solubility of these ethylnaphthalene isomers:

  • Temperature: Increasing temperature generally enhances solubility for organic compounds but must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
  • Structural Isomerism: While both 1-ethylnaphthalene and 2-ethylnaphthalene are structurally similar, slight variations in molecular arrangement may lead to minor differences in their solubility profiles.

In conclusion, both 1-ethylnaphthalene and 2-ethylnaphthalene display significant solubility in non-polar solvents while remaining insoluble in water, emphasizing the typical behavior of organic compounds within their class.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 1-ethylnaphthalene and 2-ethylnaphthalene

1-ethylnaphthalene and 2-ethylnaphthalene are fascinating compounds belonging to the naphthalene family, which comprises two fused aromatic rings. These compounds are isomers, meaning they share the same molecular formula but differ in the arrangement of their atoms, giving rise to unique properties:

  • Structural Characteristics: The primary difference between 1-ethylnaphthalene and 2-ethylnaphthalene is the position of the ethyl group on the naphthalene structure. In 1-ethylnaphthalene, the ethyl group is attached to the first carbon in the naphthalene ring, while in 2-ethylnaphthalene, it's located on the second carbon.
  • Industrial Relevance: Both compounds are valuable in the chemical industry. They can serve as intermediates in the synthesis of various chemicals, including dyes and pharmaceuticals.
  • Physical Properties: These isomers exhibit varying volatility and solubility profiles, which can affect their applications in different chemical processes.
  • Research Significance: Studies of these compounds often focus on their behavior in reactions, as well as their environmental impact, particularly because polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) like naphthalene can pose environmental and health risks.

Interestingly, the detection and quantification of these compounds in environmental samples can offer insights into organic contamination and pollutant levels in various ecosystems. As quoted by a well-known chemist, "Understanding the subtle differences in isomer behavior can lead to breakthroughs in both synthesis and environmental remediation."

In summary, the exploration of 1-ethylnaphthalene and 2-ethylnaphthalene not only enriches our knowledge of organic chemistry but also enhances our understanding of these compounds' applications and implications in real-world scenarios.

Synonyms
SCHEMBL49863