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Lauric acid 2-glyceryl ester

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Identification
Molecular formula
C15H28O5
CAS number
17536-10-2
IUPAC name
[2-[(2R,3S,4R)-3,4-dihydroxytetrahydrofuran-2-yl]-2-hydroxy-ethyl] dodecanoate
State
State

At room temperature, this compound is typically a liquid, which can crystallize upon cooling.

Melting point (Celsius)
22.20
Melting point (Kelvin)
295.35
Boiling point (Celsius)
334.80
Boiling point (Kelvin)
607.95
General information
Molecular weight
288.42g/mol
Molar mass
288.4230g/mol
Density
0.9009g/cm3
Appearence

This compound is a colorless to pale yellow oily liquid. It is often known for being part of formulations in personal care products due to its emollient properties. It has a slightly fatty odor that is characteristic of esters of lauric acid.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of [2-[(2R,3S,4R)-3,4-dihydroxytetrahydrofuran-2-yl]-2-hydroxy-ethyl] dodecanoate

The solubility of this complex compound is influenced by its unique structure, which features both hydrophilic and hydrophobic elements. This duality raises several interesting points regarding its solubility characteristics:

  • Hydrophilicity: The presence of the hydroxyl (-OH) groups in the formula suggests that the compound is likely to be more soluble in polar solvents, particularly water. The hydroxyl groups can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, facilitating solubility.
  • Hydrophobicity: The long dodecanoate chain contributes significant hydrophobic characteristics to the compound. This hydrophobic tail can lead to lower solubility in polar solvents, making it less soluble in environments where water is the primary solvent.
  • Amphiphilic Behavior: Given both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties, this compound may exhibit behavior akin to surfactants. It could potentially reduce surface tension in mixtures, indicating some level of solubility in mixed solvent systems.
  • Solvent Interaction: The solubility will vary significantly based on the solvent used; it is expected to be more soluble in organic solvents compared to water, especially those that can interact favorably with the hydrophobic dodecanoate chain.

In summary, the solubility of [2-[(2R,3S,4R)-3,4-dihydroxytetrahydrofuran-2-yl]-2-hydroxy-ethyl] dodecanoate is a complex interplay between its hydrophilic hydroxyl groups and hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain. Understanding these properties can lead to insights into its behavior in various chemical and biological environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about [2-[(2R,3S,4R)-3,4-dihydroxytetrahydrofuran-2-yl]-2-hydroxy-ethyl] dodecanoate

This compound, often referred to in the scientific community for its unique structural components, is of particular interest in various fields, including organic chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and materials science. Here are some fascinating insights:

  • Complex Structure: The molecule features a combination of a hydroxytetrahydrofuran ring and a dodecanoate ester, showcasing the special interactions between carbohydrate structures and long-chain fatty acids.
  • Your Health Ally: Due to its hydroxyl groups, this compound may have potential applications in drug formulation, as hydroxyl groups often enhance solubility and bioavailability, making it easier for the body to utilize medicinal products.
  • Synthetic Versatility: The synthesis of this compound allows for the introduction of various functional groups, making it a valuable building block in organic synthesis, especially in generating more complex compounds for medicinal chemistry.
  • Natural Inspirations: This compound's backbone derives inspiration from naturally occurring sugars, which highlights the importance of studying carbohydrate derivatives in creating new therapeutics and compounds.
  • Research Potential: Ongoing studies are exploring its properties, including its behavior in biological systems and its potential role in drug delivery mechanisms, aiming to better understand how such compounds can improve health outcomes.

Scientists are excited about the prospects of [2-[(2R,3S,4R)-3,4-dihydroxytetrahydrofuran-2-yl]-2-hydroxy-ethyl] dodecanoate and other similar compounds as we continue to discover their myriad applications across various domains. As stated by a leading researcher, "The intricacies of organic compounds like this one reveal a world of potential waiting to be unlocked."

Synonyms
SCHEMBL2481200
NS00006925