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(-)-Menthol

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Identification
Molecular formula
C10H20O
CAS number
89-78-1
IUPAC name
(1R,4aR,4bR,10aR)-7-isopropyl-1,4a-dimethyl-2,3,4,4b,5,6,10,10a-octahydrophenanthrene-1-carboxylate
State
State

At room temperature, menthol is typically a solid but will start to melt slightly at temperatures just below body temperature, contributing to its characteristic cooling sensation when used in various products.

Melting point (Celsius)
42.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
315.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
212.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
485.15
General information
Molecular weight
156.27g/mol
Molar mass
156.2690g/mol
Density
0.8902g/cm3
Appearence

Menthol, specifically (-)-Menthol in its pure form, typically appears as colorless needle-like or prismatic crystals. It may also be available as a granular powder. The compound possesses a distinctive minty odor that is refreshing and cooling, often associated with its presence in peppermint oil. In its commercial form, it can also appear as a white crystalline solid or tablets, used primarily in pharmaceutical and confectionery applications due to its cooling properties.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (1R,4aR,4bR,10aR)-7-isopropyl-1,4a-dimethyl-2,3,4,4b,5,6,10,10a-octahydrophenanthrene-1-carboxylate

The solubility of (1R,4aR,4bR,10aR)-7-isopropyl-1,4a-dimethyl-2,3,4,4b,5,6,10,10a-octahydrophenanthrene-1-carboxylate can be influenced by several factors, including its molecular structure and the presence of functional groups. This compound features a complex bicyclic structure that may affect its ability to interact with solvents.

Key Considerations for Solubility:

  • Solvent Polarity: Non-polar solvents are more likely to dissolve compounds with significant hydrophobic regions, while polar solvents can solvate polar functional groups.
  • Temperature: Increased temperature often enhances solubility as it provides energy to overcome intermolecular forces.
  • pH Effects: If the compound can ionize, changes in pH can alter its solubility, potentially increasing it in more alkaline or acidic solutions.
  • High Molecular Weight: The large molecular size may limit solubility in front of smaller solvents, often leading to lower solubility compared to smaller organic compounds.

While specific experimental data on the solubility of this compound in various solvents is scarce, it is often the case that such intricate structures exhibit limited solubility in water but may dissolve better in organic solvents such as ethanol or acetone. As the phrase goes, "like dissolves like," emphasizing that similar types of molecules typically achieve better solvation. Therefore, for optimal solubility studies, the choice of solvent should closely relate to the compound's chemical nature.

Understanding the solubility characteristics of (1R,4aR,4bR,10aR)-7-isopropyl-1,4a-dimethyl-2,3,4,4b,5,6,10,10a-octahydrophenanthrene-1-carboxylate is crucial for applications in pharmaceuticals, materials science, and chemical synthesis, leading to more effective usage of this compound in various fields.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (1R,4aR,4bR,10aR)-7-isopropyl-1,4a-dimethyl-2,3,4,4b,5,6,10,10a-octahydrophenanthrene-1-carboxylate

This compound, often referred to in the context of organic chemistry and biochemistry, represents a fascinating example of complex organic structures. Here are some remarkable points about it:

  • Structural Complexity: The structural configuration of this compound, with multiple chiral centers and a fused polycyclic framework, showcases the intricacies of stereochemistry.
  • Synthesis Challenges: The synthesis of such complex molecules often presents significant challenges, making them a focal point of synthetic chemistry research.
  • Biological Relevance: Compounds similar to this one may potentially exhibit biological activity, particularly in pharmaceutical applications, as many drug candidates stem from structurally rich organic molecules.
  • Natural Occurrence: It is notable to mention that certain derivatives of similar structures have been found in nature, indicating their potential ecological roles or benefits.

"The study of complex organic compounds like this one not only enhances our understanding of chemical interactions but also opens avenues for innovative drug design."

Overall, the multifaceted nature of (1R,4aR,4bR,10aR)-7-isopropyl-1,4a-dimethyl-2,3,4,4b,5,6,10,10a-octahydrophenanthrene-1-carboxylate epitomizes the beauty and challenge found within the realm of organic chemistry, making it an intriguing subject for both research and education.

Synonyms
abieta-7,13-diene-18-oate
(1R,4aR,4bR,10aR)-1,4a-dimethyl-7-propan-2-yl-2,3,4,4b,5,6,10,10a-octahydrophenanthrene-1-carboxylate
10248-55-2
abieta-7,13-dien-18-oate
EINECS 233-584-2
CHEBI:35680
RSWGJHLUYNHPMX-ONCXSQPRSA-M
(1R-(1alpha,4Abeta,4balpha,10aalpha))-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,10,10a-decahydro-1,4a-dimethyl-7-(isopropyl)phenanthrene-1-carboxylic acid, copper salt
1-Phenanthrenecarboxylic acid, 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,10,10a-decahydro-1,4a-dimethyl-7-(1-methylethyl)-, copper salt, (1R,4aR,4bR,10aR)-
Q27116563
(1R,4aR,4bR,10aR)-7-isopropyl-1,4a-dimethyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,10,10a-decahydrophenanthrene-1-carboxylate