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beta-Carotene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C40H56
CAS number
7235-40-7
IUPAC name
1,3,3-trimethyl-2-[3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-yl)octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]cyclohexene
State
State

At room temperature, beta-Carotene is typically a solid. Its vibrant crystalline structure is commonly used in food coloring and nutritional supplements.

Melting point (Celsius)
183.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
456.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
536.89g/mol
Molar mass
536.8880g/mol
Density
0.9400g/cm3
Appearence

Beta-Carotene appears as a red-orange crystalline solid or powder. It is known for its vibrant color, which is due to its extensive conjugated double-bond system. This compound is sensitive to light and air and should be stored in airtight containers to prevent degradation. It is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 1,3,3-trimethyl-2-[3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-yl)octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]cyclohexene

The solubility of 1,3,3-trimethyl-2-[3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-yl)octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]cyclohexene is notably influenced by its molecular structure, characterized by a complex arrangement of long hydrocarbon chains and cyclic components.

In general, the solubility behavior can be summarized as follows:

  • Nonpolar Characteristics: Due to its extensive hydrocarbon nature, this compound exhibits predominantly nonpolar characteristics, making it poorly soluble in polar solvents such as water.
  • Solvent Compatibility: It is expected to show better solubility in nonpolar organic solvents, including:
    • Hexane
    • Octane
    • Benzene
    • Toluene
  • Chain Length: The increasing length of the hydrocarbon chains generally contributes to a decrease in solubility in polar environments while enhancing the solubility in nonpolar mediums.

In conclusion, due to its large and intricate structure, this compound is likely to be insoluble in water but highly soluble in nonpolar organic solvents, which is a common trend among hydrocarbons of similar nature.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 1,3,3-Trimethyl-2-[3,7,12,16-Tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-Trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-yl)Octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-Nonaenyl]Cyclohexene

This complex compound belongs to a fascinating class of organic molecules primarily recognized for their roles in various biological functions and industrial applications. One striking aspect of this compound is its intricate structure, which includes multiple methyl groups and cyclohexene rings, contributing to its unique chemical properties.

Key Highlights:

  • Natural Presence: Compounds like these are often found in nature, serving as precursors in the biosynthesis of more complex substances, including terpenes and steroid hormones.
  • Synthetic Utilization: The synthesis of similar compounds has interesting implications in materials science, particularly in the development of polymers and fine chemicals.
  • Structure-Activity Relationships: The various substitutions on the cyclohexene rings can greatly influence the reactivity, proving essential in the study of structure-activity relationships in drug development.
  • Fragrance and Flavor: Many cyclic compounds contribute to the aroma profiles in natural essential oils. Their structural diversity allows chemists to tailor scents for both natural and synthetic applications.
  • Research Potential: Given its complex arrangement, this compound is a subject of interest for chemists seeking to explore reaction mechanisms and properties associated with large, multifaceted organic molecules.

In summary, even though 1,3,3-trimethyl-2-[3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-yl)octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]cyclohexene might be seen as merely a complex structure, its implications in scientific research and practical applications are broad and profound. As students and scientists delve deeper into such compounds, they uncover the intricate dance of atoms and bonds that underpin so much of our chemistry-based world.

Synonyms
1,3,3-trimethyl-2-[3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-yl)octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]cyclohexene
(6\'R)-beta,epsilon-carotene
DTXSID90864072
AAA43270
DB-055920
4',5'-Didehydro-5',6'-dihydro-beta,beta-carotene