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β-Carotene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C40H56
CAS number
7235-40-7
IUPAC name
(1R)-4-[18-[(1R)-4-hydroxy-2,6,6-trimethyl-cyclohex-2-en-1-yl]-3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]-3,5,5-trimethyl-cyclohex-3-en-1-ol
State
State

At room temperature, β-Carotene is typically found as a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
183.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
456.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
454.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
727.15
General information
Molecular weight
536.87g/mol
Molar mass
536.8710g/mol
Density
0.9410g/cm3
Appearence

β-Carotene is a red-orange pigment abundant in plants and fruits. It appears as a dark red-purple crystalline solid when in pure form. It is responsible for the orange color of carrots and different other fruits and vegetables.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (1R)-4-[18-[(1R)-4-hydroxy-2,6,6-trimethyl-cyclohex-2-en-1-yl]-3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]-3,5,5-trimethyl-cyclohex-3-en-1-ol

The solubility of the compound (1R)-4-[18-[(1R)-4-hydroxy-2,6,6-trimethyl-cyclohex-2-en-1-yl]-3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]-3,5,5-trimethyl-cyclohex-3-en-1-ol is influenced by several factors:

  • Molecular Structure: This compound consists of multiple cyclic and linear structures which can impact how it interacts with solvents.
  • Functional Groups: The presence of hydroxyl groups typically enhances solubility in polar solvents like water.
  • Hydrophobic Regions: The long alkyl chains may lead to reduced solubility in polar solvents but increased solubility in non-polar solvents.
  • Temperature: Solubility can vary significantly with temperature. It generally increases as temperature rises for many organic compounds.

In general, this compound is likely to be:

  • Soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, hexane, or chloroform.
  • Less soluble in water, mainly due to its large hydrophobic portions.

As a quote often goes, "The polarity of the solvent makes all the difference." Understanding the solubility profile of such complex compounds is essential in various applications, ranging from pharmaceuticals to materials science.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (1R)-4-[18-[(1R)-4-hydroxy-2,6,6-trimethyl-cyclohex-2-en-1-yl]-3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]-3,5,5-trimethyl-cyclohex-3-en-1-ol

The compound (1R)-4-[18-[(1R)-4-hydroxy-2,6,6-trimethyl-cyclohex-2-en-1-yl]-3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]-3,5,5-trimethyl-cyclohex-3-en-1-ol is a fascinating member of the class of organic compounds known as terpenoids. Terpenoids play significant roles in various biological systems and are known for their diverse functionalities. Here are some interesting aspects of this compound:

  • Biological Significance: Terpenoids, such as this compound, often have roles in plant defense and attraction of pollinators, showcasing nature's intricate chemical communication.
  • Structural Complexity: The elaborate structure of this compound exemplifies the vast diversity found in organic chemistry. Its multiple cyclohexene rings and hydroxy groups contribute to its potential biological activity.
  • Potential Applications: Compounds similar to this have been investigated for their potential therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, making them a focus area in pharmacological research.
  • Chirality: The presence of multiple chiral centers suggests that this molecule could exhibit enantioselectivity in biological systems, which is essential in drug design and efficacy.
  • Research Interest: Its intricate structure might make it a subject of interest for synthetic chemists aiming to develop new synthesis methods or for biochemists studying metabolic pathways in plants.

In summary, (1R)-4-[18-[(1R)-4-hydroxy-2,6,6-trimethyl-cyclohex-2-en-1-yl]-3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]-3,5,5-trimethyl-cyclohex-3-en-1-ol captivates chemists due to its complex design and potential impacts in nature and health. As research continues, understanding its applications may unlock exciting new pathways in science and medicine.