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Hexadecylphosphocholine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C25H54NO4P
CAS number
8041-44-9
IUPAC name
2-(dimethylamino)ethyl-(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, hexadecylphosphocholine is in a solid state. The compound is usually handled in a powder form and may exhibit waxy characteristics due to its long alkyl chain.

Melting point (Celsius)
88.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
361.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
460.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
733.15
General information
Molecular weight
406.67g/mol
Molar mass
406.6700g/mol
Density
0.9604g/cm3
Appearence

Hexadecylphosphocholine is a white powder. It is typically crystalline and can appear as a solid with a characteristic waxy texture. It is slightly soluble in water and readily soluble in organic solvents.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl-(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonium

This compound, known for its intriguing structure, exhibits complex solubility characteristics due to the interplay of its hydrophilic and hydrophobic components. Understanding these properties can be summarized as follows:

  • Hydrophilic Group: The presence of the dimethylamino functional group enhances solubility in polar solvents like water.
  • Hydrophobic Alkyl Chain: Conversely, the long hexadecoxy chain introduces considerable hydrophobicity, which may limit solubility in aqueous environments.
  • Overall Solubility: The balance between the hydrophilic and hydrophobic segments suggests that this compound is likely more soluble in organic solvents, such as ethanol or chloroform, compared to water.
  • Concentration Dependence: Its solubility may also be influenced by concentration, temperature, and the presence of other solutes, which can either stabilize or destabilize its solubility.

In essence, due to its unique structure, the solubility of 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl-(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonium can be described as exhibiting:

  • Good solubility in organic solvents
  • Variable solubility in water, depending on conditions

It is often helpful to perform empirical tests to evaluate solubility in practical applications, as theoretical predictions can lead to varied outcomes in different environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-(Dimethylamino)ethyl-(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonium

This fascinating compound belongs to a class of quaternary ammonium compounds, which are widely recognized for their unique properties and functions. Here are some engaging facts about this compound:

  • Versatile Applications: Due to its quaternary structure, this compound can serve various roles in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to cosmetics. Its ability to act as a surfactant makes it valuable in formulating cleansers and emulsifiers.
  • Biological Significance: Compounds like this can interact with biological membranes, influencing cell permeability and acting as potential drug delivery agents. Researchers are investigating how this could lead to advancements in targeted therapies.
  • Structure and Function: The presence of a dimethylamino group plays a critical role in its basicity and solubility, affecting how it interacts with other molecules. Understanding these interactions is key to harnessing its properties effectively.
  • Sustainability Aspect: The hexadecoxy group indicates a long-chain hydrophobic tail that can enhance the stability and efficacy of formulations while also aligning with a push towards more biocompatible materials.
  • Research Frontier: Ongoing studies explore this compound's potential in various domains, including its antimicrobial properties, which can lead to innovations in sanitization products.

Overall, 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl-(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonium represents a compelling intersection of chemistry and application, highlighting the innovative potential of quaternary ammonium compounds in contemporary science.