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β-Carotene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C40H56
CAS number
7235-40-7
IUPAC name
2-(3,7,12,16,20,24-hexamethylpentacosa-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17,19,23-undecaenyl)-1,3,3-trimethyl-cyclohexene
State
State

At room temperature, β-Carotene is typically a solid due to its high molecular weight and complex structure of conjugated double bonds.

Melting point (Celsius)
183.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
456.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
536.89g/mol
Molar mass
536.8880g/mol
Density
1.0100g/cm3
Appearence

β-Carotene appears as a red-orange crystalline powder. It is a chromophore that gives a yellow to orange color to many fruits and vegetables. In the pure form, it is deeply colored due to its extensive system of conjugated double bonds.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-(3,7,12,16,20,24-hexamethylpentacosa-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17,19,23-undecaenyl)-1,3,3-trimethyl-cyclohexene

This compound, with its complex structure and long hydrocarbon chain, exhibits unique solubility characteristics. Solubility is highly influenced by factors such as molecular structure, polarity, and interactions with solvents. In the case of this compound, the following points are noteworthy:

  • Hydrophobic Nature: The lengthy carbon chain tends to be hydrophobic, which means it will not dissolve well in polar solvents like water. Instead, it favors non-polar solvents such as hexane or toluene.
  • Solvent Compatibility: The solubility in organic solvents can be attributed to the compound's large number of methyl groups, which enhance its van der Waals interactions, promoting solubility in similar non-polar environments.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of such compounds can also be temperature-dependent. As temperature increases, the kinetic energy may enhance solubility in non-polar solvents.

It's essential to remember that the “like dissolves like” principle plays a vital role in determining solubility. Thus, for this compound, the best solubility outcomes are likely when paired with equivalent non-polar solvents, emphasizing the importance of solvent choice in practical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-(3,7,12,16,20,24-hexamethylpentacosa-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17,19,23-undecaenyl)-1,3,3-trimethyl-cyclohexene

This complex organic compound boasts a fascinating structure that underscores its significance in various fields of chemistry and biology. Its intricate molecular design reflects a blend of saturated and unsaturated components, showcasing an impressive array of double bonds that contribute to its chemical reactivity and versatility.

Chemical Composition and Structure

The compound is characterized by:

  • Long carbon chains: The presence of a long hydrocarbon chain contributes to its unique properties, influencing its interactions with other molecules.
  • Methyl groups: The multiple methyl groups not only play a role in the stability of the compound, but they also impact its physical and chemical behavior.
  • Functional groups: The integration of different functional groups can lead to a range of applications in organic synthesis and materials science.

Applications and Significance

This compound is notable for its potential applications in:

  • Organic Synthesis: The unique structural features allow chemists to explore new reaction pathways.
  • Materials Development: Its composition may facilitate the creation of advanced materials with tailored properties.
  • Biological Research: Due to its structural complexity, it may serve as a model compound for studying various biological processes.

A Peek into its Chemistry

Understanding the behaviors of such compounds can be quite illuminating. For example, compounds like this one can exhibit unique properties such as:

  • Stability under certain conditions
  • Reactivity that changes in response to environmental factors
  • Possibly intriguing optical properties due to extended π-systems

In the world of science, compounds like 2-(3,7,12,16,20,24-hexamethylpentacosa-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17,19,23-undecaenyl)-1,3,3-trimethyl-cyclohexene demonstrate the exquisite complexity of organic chemistry. As one delves deeper, one is reminded of the words of renowned chemist Linus Pauling: “The best way to have a good idea is to have lots of ideas.” This compound certainly embodies the idea of exploration and innovative discovery in chemistry.

Synonyms
DTXSID60871657