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2-Aminoethanol / 2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C2H7NO for 2-aminoethanol; C7H6O4 for 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid
CAS number
141-43-5 for 2-aminoethanol; 490-79-9 for 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid
IUPAC name
2-aminoethanol;2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid
State
State

2-Aminoethanol is typically a liquid at room temperature with a slightly viscous nature.

2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid is usually encountered as a solid powder at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
10.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
283.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
170.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
443.15
General information
Molecular weight
154.12g/mol
Molar mass
89.0930g/mol
Density
1.0120g/cm3
Appearence

2-Aminoethanol, commonly known as ethanolamine, is a colorless, viscous liquid with an ammonia-like odor. It is often used in detergents and pharmaceuticals.

2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid, also known as gentisic acid, appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is an aromatic compound and can also appear as needles or crystals.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-aminoethanol and 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid

2-aminoethanol (C2H7NO) is a polar compound, characterized by its ability to easily dissolve in water. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Highly Soluble: Due to its amine and hydroxyl functional groups, 2-aminoethanol exhibits very good solubility in both water and alcohols.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The presence of both an amine and a hydroxyl group facilitates strong hydrogen bonding with water molecules, enhancing solubility.
  • Applications: Its solubility characteristics make 2-aminoethanol useful in various industries, including pharmaceuticals and cosmetic formulations.

In contrast, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (C7H6O4) has unique solubility characteristics rooted in its structure. Consider the following aspects:

  • Moderate Solubility: This compound shows moderate solubility in water, benefiting from its ability to ionize in solution due to the presence of carboxylic acid groups.
  • pH Dependence: The solubility can vary significantly depending upon the pH of the solution; it is generally more soluble in alkaline solutions.
  • Role of Hydroxyl Groups: The two hydroxyl (–OH) groups contribute to its polar nature, aiding in solubility, albeit to a lesser extent compared to 2-aminoethanol.

In summary, while both compounds exhibit solubility in water due to differing functional groups and structures, their solubility profiles highlight the fascinating interplay of molecular characteristics and environmental conditions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-Aminoethanol and 2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic Acid

As a fascinating representative of the amino alcohols, 2-aminoethanol, also known as ethanolamine, plays a crucial role in various industrial applications. Here are some points that highlight its significance:

  • Versatile Chemical: Ethanolamine is widely used in the production of surfactants, detergents, and personal care products, making it a vital component in everyday household items.
  • Pharmaceutical Applications: This compound serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of numerous pharmaceuticals, including specific anti-migraine agents, showcasing its importance in medicinal chemistry.
  • Biochemical Role: Ethanolamine is a building block for the synthesis of phospholipids, essential for cell membrane integrity and signaling in biological systems.
  • Research Applications: Scientists utilize ethanolamine in various research settings, including studies on protein stabilization and modification, highlighting its relevance in cutting-edge scientific investigations.

On the other hand, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (also known as gentisic acid) is another intriguing compound with unique characteristics. Recognized for its antioxidant properties, gentisic acid has several important aspects:

  • Natural Occurrence: This compound is found naturally in various plants, serving as a product of the breakdown of certain amino acids.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Gentisic acid has exhibited potential as a powerful antioxidant, which helps protect cells from oxidative damage and is of great interest in research on aging and disease prevention.
  • Analytical Chemistry: It is frequently used as a reagent in chemical analysis, especially in the determination of metals and other compounds, owing to its ability to form stable complexes with certain ions.
  • Biological Significance: Research suggests that gentisic acid may contribute to various biological processes, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, presenting exciting avenues for further study.

Both 2-aminoethanol and 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid showcase the rich diversity of chemical compounds that have not only industrial significance but also profound implications in biological and medical research.

Synonyms
GENTISIC ACID ETHANOLAMINE
7491-35-2
Gentisic acid ethanolamine salt
PJL7EVT77G
Ethanol, 2-amino-, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoate (salt)
2-aminoethanol;2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid
2-aminoethanol; 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid
UNII-PJL7EVT77G
SCHEMBL2268173
DTXSID60274760
2-Aminoethan-1-ol 2,5-dihydroxybenzoate
Q27286592