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Heptylphenol

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Identification
Molecular formula
C13H20O
CAS number
72624-02-3
IUPAC name
2-heptylphenol;3-heptylphenol;4-heptylphenol
State
State

At room temperature, heptylphenol is a liquid. It is characterized by its pronounced oily consistency and mild aromatic odor, typical for alkyl phenols.

Melting point (Celsius)
-30.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
243.20
Boiling point (Celsius)
314.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
587.70
General information
Molecular weight
206.34g/mol
Molar mass
206.3440g/mol
Density
0.9394g/cm3
Appearence

Heptylphenol is a viscous, oily liquid. It may appear as a colorless to light yellow liquid depending on its purity and storage conditions. The presence of impurities may impart a slight color to the compound. Its oily nature makes it slightly sticky to the touch.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-Heptylphenol, 3-Heptylphenol, and 4-Heptylphenol

The solubility of 2-heptylphenol, 3-heptylphenol, and 4-heptylphenol is influenced by several factors due to the unique structure of these compounds.

  • Polarity: These compounds exhibit a hydrophobic hydrocarbon tail combined with a polar hydroxyl group. This structure allows for some solubility in organic solvents.
  • Water Solubility: They are expected to have low solubility in water, primarily because the long heptyl chain hinders interactions with water molecules.
  • Concentration Effects: At higher concentrations in organic solvents, the solubility increases significantly, showcasing the importance of solvent choice.

In general, it can be stated that:

  • These compounds are more soluble in non-polar organic solvents.
  • They demonstrate limited solubility in aqueous environments, which may vary slightly based on temperature and pH.

Understanding the solubility characteristics of these heptylphenols is vital for their applications in industrial processes and environmental considerations.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Heptylphenols

Heptylphenols, including 2-heptylphenol, 3-heptylphenol, and 4-heptylphenol, are organic compounds that exhibit fascinating characteristics and applications, particularly in the field of chemistry and industrial processes. Here are a few intriguing aspects:

  • Structural Diversity: These compounds are distinguished by the positioning of the heptyl group (a seven-carbon chain) on the phenolic ring, which greatly influences their chemical properties and biological activities. The different positions result in varied physical properties, making them interesting subjects for comparative studies.
  • Applications in Industry: Heptylphenols are often utilized as intermediates in the synthesis of various chemical products, including surfactants and lubricants. Their ability to modify properties of other compounds makes them valuable in formulating products across many sectors.
  • Biological Activity: Studies have shown that heptylphenols exhibit potential biological properties, including antibacterial and antifungal activities. This could lead to innovative applications in medicine and agriculture, where combating resistant strains of pathogens is increasingly critical.
  • Environmental Concerns: Like many organic compounds, heptylphenols can pose environmental challenges. Research into their biodegradability and environmental impact is essential, especially as industries seek sustainable practices and methods to minimize harmful effects on ecosystems.

As chemists and science students continue to explore the properties and uses of compounds like heptylphenols, the compounds' potential applications in a variety of fields continue to inspire innovation and research.