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Cetyltrimethylammonium chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
C19H42ClNO
CAS number
112-02-7
IUPAC name
2-(dimethylamino)ethyl-(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonium;chloride
State
State

At room temperature, cetyltrimethylammonium chloride is commonly found in a solid state, often as a crystalline powder. However, due to its hygroscopic nature, it can also be partially liquid if it absorbs moisture from the surrounding environment. It is typically handled and stored as a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
246.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
519.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
175.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
448.15
General information
Molecular weight
364.89g/mol
Molar mass
364.8910g/mol
Density
0.9680g/cm3
Appearence

Cetyltrimethylammonium chloride typically appears as a white crystalline powder, though it can also be found as a colorless paste or liquid in some commercially available forms. It is known for being hygroscopic, meaning it has the ability to absorb moisture from the air.

Comment on solubility

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

The compound 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl-(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonium;chloride is an intriguing substance when it comes to its solubility characteristics. This compound is a quaternary ammonium salt, which often enhances its solubility in various solvents.

Key Factors Affecting Solubility:

  • Polarity: Due to the presence of the dimethylamino group and the chloride ion, the compound exhibits significant polar characteristics, making it soluble in polar solvents like water and alcohols.
  • Hydrophobic Tail: The hexadecoxy group contributes a long hydrophobic alkyl chain, which can interact favorably with organic solvents, such as benzene or hexane, enhancing solubility in these media.
  • Temperature: As with many compounds, solubility can be affected by temperature, often increasing with higher temperatures as molecular motion increases.

Generally, quaternary ammonium compounds like this one tend to be soluble in:

  • Water
  • Ethanol
  • Acetone

However, they may exhibit limited solubility in:

  • Non-polar solvents
  • Saturated hydrocarbon solvents

In conclusion, the solubility of 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl-(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonium;chloride can be described as *moderately high in polar solvents* while *less favorable in strictly non-polar environments*. Understanding these solubility properties is crucial for its applications in various chemical industries.

Interesting facts

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

This fascinating compound is known for its unique structural features and potential applications in various fields. Here are some intriguing aspects:

  • Chemical Composition: The compound contains a dimethylamino group, which is notable for enhancing solubility and interaction with biological membranes, making it potentially useful in pharmacological applications.
  • Long-Chain Alkoxy Group: The presence of the hexadecyl group provides hydrophobic characteristics, which can enhance the compound's ability to form micelles or lipid bilayers, relevant for drug delivery systems.
  • Ammonium Ion: The quaternary ammonium structure plays a crucial role in its behavior as a surfactant and modifies its interaction with various solvents.
  • Versatility: The compound can possibly be utilized in cosmetic formulations, owing to its surfactant properties, enhancing penetration of active ingredients into the skin.
  • Potential Biocompatibility: Given its unique composition, it may be investigated for biomaterials that interact favorably with biological systems, providing a platform for innovative therapeutic drugs.

In conclusion, 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl-(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonium; chloride represents a remarkable blend of organic chemistry that opens the door to exciting research avenues. Scientists and researchers continue to explore its multifaceted nature and potential for advancements in medicine and materials science.

Synonyms
26072-72-0
Ammonium, (carboxymethyl)dimethyl(dimethylaminoethyl)-, chloride, hexadecyl ester
(Carboxymethyl)dimethyl(dimethylaminoethyl)ammonium, chloride, hexadecyl ester
RefChem:318978
DTXSID20948950
N-[2-(Dimethylamino)ethyl]-2-(hexadecyloxy)-N,N-dimethyl-2-oxoethan-1-aminium chloride