Lecithin | Solubility of Things

Identification

Molecular formula

C₄₂H₈₂NO₉P

CAS number

8002-43-5

IUPAC name

2-[hydroxy-[2-methoxy-3-(octadecanoylamino)propoxy]phosphoryl]oxyethyl-trimethyl-ammonium

State

At room temperature, lecithin is typically a solid but can also present as a viscous liquid depending on its formulation and temperature. Its state can vary greatly due to its complex mixture of lipids.

Melting point (Celsius)

-20.00

Melting point (Kelvin)

253.15

Boiling point (Celsius)

200.00

Boiling point (Kelvin)

473.15

General information

Molecular weight

768.61g/mol

Molar mass

768.6090g/mol

Density

1.0300g/cm³

Appearence

Lecithin is a yellow-brownish fatty substance that appears in a range of consistencies from viscous liquid to delicate solid, depending on its specific composition and purity. It is often used in food and industrial applications for its emulsifying and lubricating properties, and for its ability to soften foods' textures.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-[hydroxy-[2-methoxy-3-(octadecanoylamino)propoxy]phosphoryl]oxyethyl-trimethyl-ammonium

The solubility of the compound with the chemical formula C₄₂H₈₂NO₉P, known as 2-[hydroxy-[2-methoxy-3-(octadecanoylamino)propoxy]phosphoryl]oxyethyl-trimethyl-ammonium, can be complex due to its unique structure. This compound features both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) characteristics, which can significantly influence its solubility profile.

Factors Influencing Solubility:

Hydrophobic Hydrocarbon Tail: The long octadecanoyl chain contributes to hydrophobic behavior, typically making such compounds less soluble in water.
Hydrophilic Functional Groups: The presence of hydroxyl and phosphoryl groups enhances solubility in polar solvents.
Ammonium Group: The trimethylammonium part generally improves solubility in water due to its positive charge, which interacts favorably with water molecules.

As a result, the solubility of this compound is likely to be:

Moderate in polar solvents, particularly in aqueous solutions due to the polar functional groups.

Poor in non-polar solvents due to the extensive hydrophobic nature of the long hydrocarbon tail.

In conclusion, while the hydrophobic tail may limit solubility in water, the overall solubility of 2-[hydroxy-[2-methoxy-3-(octadecanoylamino)propoxy]phosphoryl]oxyethyl-trimethyl-ammonium can be enhanced in specific formulations that utilize its amphiphilic properties effectively. This makes it an intriguing candidate for applications in biochemical and pharmaceutical contexts.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 2-[hydroxy-[2-methoxy-3-(octadecanoylamino)propoxy]phosphoryl]oxyethyl-trimethyl-ammonium

2-[hydroxy-[2-methoxy-3-(octadecanoylamino)propoxy]phosphoryl]oxyethyl-trimethyl-ammonium is a fascinating compound due to its diverse applications and structural complexity. Here are some intriguing aspects:

Dual Functionality: This compound exhibits both phospholipid-like and amphiphilic properties, making it useful in various biochemical applications.

Biocompatibility: Its structure suggests a potential for compatibility with biological systems, paving the way for applications in drug delivery and biomaterials.

Surfactant Properties: The presence of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic segments implies its ability to act as a surfactant, which can stabilize emulsions in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations.

Potential in Gene Therapy: Due to its ability to interact with biological membranes, there's growing interest in its use as a vector for gene therapy, providing a means to deliver genetic material into cells.

Structure-Activity Relationship: The unique combination of hydroxyl, methoxy, and alkyl chain functionalities allows for a broad exploration of structure-activity relationships, which can influence its efficacy in biological contexts.

As a chemical researcher, understanding the properties and potential applications of this compound opens exciting avenues for future studies. "The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes." - Marcel Proust. This idea encapsulates the innovative spirit encouraged by compounds like 2-[hydroxy-[2-methoxy-3-(octadecanoylamino)propoxy]phosphoryl]oxyethyl-trimethyl-ammonium, urging researchers to look beyond conventional boundaries.

Synonyms

NCI60_007574

SCHEMBL7636990

2-methoxy-3-octadecanamidopropoxy(2-(trimethylammonio)ethoxy)phosphinic acid