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Betaine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C5H11NO2
CAS number
107-43-7
IUPAC name
(2-amino-2-oxo-ethyl)-trimethyl-ammonium
State
State

Betaine is typically found as a solid at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
301.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
574.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
166.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
439.15
General information
Molecular weight
117.15g/mol
Molar mass
117.1470g/mol
Density
1.0000g/cm3
Appearence

Betaine typically appears as a white, crystalline compound at room temperature. It is hygroscopic and soluble in water, giving solutions that are clear and colorless.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (2-amino-2-oxo-ethyl)-trimethyl-ammonium

The solubility of the compound (2-amino-2-oxo-ethyl)-trimethyl-ammonium is quite noteworthy due to its ionic nature. Being a quaternary ammonium compound, it generally shows distinct solubility characteristics:

  • Water Solubility: This compound is expected to be highly soluble in water. The presence of both the amino group and the quaternary ammonium group enhances its hydrophilicity, allowing for effective interaction with water molecules.
  • Organic Solvents: Solubility in organic solvents may vary. While some derivatives of ammonium compounds show moderate solubility, the overall hydrophilic nature of this compound suggests poor solubility in non-polar organic solvents.
  • pH Dependence: The solubility can also be influenced by pH. In acidic or basic environments, the protonation state of the amino group could affect how well it interacts with solvents, further altering its solubility profile.

In summary, one can generally expect that (2-amino-2-oxo-ethyl)-trimethyl-ammonium will dissolve readily in water while potentially exhibiting limited solubility in organic solvents. As always, it is advisable to conduct empirical solubility tests to confirm theoretical predictions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (2-amino-2-oxo-ethyl)-trimethyl-ammonium

(2-amino-2-oxo-ethyl)-trimethyl-ammonium is a fascinating compound with several unique characteristics that make it of interest in various scientific fields:

  • Biological Role: This compound has been studied for its potential roles in biological systems, particularly in cellular processes where it may function as a signaling molecule or contribute to metabolic pathways.
  • Application in Pharmaceuticals: Due to its quaternary ammonium structure, this compound has significant implications in drug design. It could serve as a template for developing new drug candidates that target specific biological pathways.
  • Surface Activity: Compounds of this type can exhibit surfactant properties, making them valuable in formulations for detergents, emulsifiers, and various cosmetic products.
  • Ion Exchange Resins: The ammonium group in this molecule can participate in ion exchange processes, making it useful in the development of ion exchange resins for water purification and other industrial applications.
  • Research and Development: Ongoing research explores the compound’s effectiveness in catalyzing reactions and its interactions with other chemical species, highlighting its versatility in organic synthesis.

In conclusion, the unique molecular structure of (2-amino-2-oxo-ethyl)-trimethyl-ammonium opens doors to diverse applications across multiple disciplines, making it an exciting subject of research for chemists and biologists alike. As stated in the words of a seasoned chemist, "The beauty of chemistry lies not just in understanding compounds, but in discovering their hidden potential."

Synonyms
2-amino-n,n,n-trimethyl-2-oxoethanaminium
16676-71-4
SCHEMBL7653102
DTXSID801269433
STL477556
AKOS037626767