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Benzocaine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C12H17NO3
CAS number
94-09-7
IUPAC name
2-(diethylamino)ethyl 2-hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzoate
State
State

At room temperature, benzocaine is typically in a solid state, appearing as a crystalline powder.

Melting point (Celsius)
88.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
361.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
310.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
583.15
General information
Molecular weight
309.36g/mol
Molar mass
309.3640g/mol
Density
1.0890g/cm3
Appearence

Benzocaine is typically a white, crystalline powder. It can also appear as a slightly off-white powder. It has a smooth texture and lacks any notable smell at room temperature. Benzocaine is sparingly soluble in water but more soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and chloroform.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-(diethylamino)ethyl 2-hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzoate

The solubility of 2-(diethylamino)ethyl 2-hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzoate is influenced by several key factors that are typical for organic compounds. Understanding these can help predict its behavior in various environments:

  • Polarity: This compound exhibits a degree of polarity due to the presence of the hydroxyl group (−OH), which can engage in hydrogen bonding. This suggests that it may be more soluble in polar solvents such as water.
  • Nonpolar Components: The diethylamino group contributes to nonpolar characteristics. This duality means that solubility might also be favorable in nonpolar organic solvents, creating a balance.
  • pH Sensitivity: The solubility can fluctuate with changes in pH. Under acidic conditions, the protonation of the amine group may enhance its solubility in water.
  • Temperature Dependence: Like many chemical compounds, temperature can impact solubility. Generally, an increase in temperature leads to higher solubility for solids in liquids.

In practice, while 2-(diethylamino)ethyl 2-hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzoate may demonstrate good solubility in both polar and nonpolar solvents, it is essential to consider the specific conditions of the solution, including concentration and solvent type, to gauge its effective solubility accurately.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-(Diethylamino)ethyl 2-Hydroxy-3-Methoxy-Benzoate

This intriguing compound, known for its multifaceted applications, is a member of the benzoate ester family. Chemists and researchers find it particularly interesting due to the following aspects:

  • Mechanism of Action: 2-(Diethylamino)ethyl 2-hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzoate is often studied for its potential role in medicinal chemistry. Its ability to participate in various chemical reactions makes it a valuable target for drug design and development.
  • Pharmaceutical Potential: This compound may serve as a prodrug or an active pharmaceutical ingredient in therapeutic formulations, especially in the treatment of specific neurological disorders.
  • Structure-Activity Relationship: The presence of the diethylamino group is crucial since it can significantly influence the compound’s lipophilicity and ability to penetrate biological membranes, enhancing its pharmacological properties.
  • Research Versatility: It is not only relevant in medicinal chemistry but also in the field of biochemistry, where its interactions with various receptors can be analyzed to gain insights into metabolic pathways.

Furthermore, this compound is a prime example of how structural modifications can lead to varied biological activities, making it a useful compound for educational purposes. As noted by researchers, "Understanding the intricate relationship between structure and function is fundamental to innovation in drug discovery."
Thus, its synthesis and characterization serve to enrich the academic tapestry of organic chemistry.

In conclusion, studying 2-(diethylamino)ethyl 2-hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzoate not only expands our knowledge of ester compounds but also opens avenues for exploring therapeutic applications, making it a significant subject of research for aspiring scientists.