Skip to main content

4-Hydroxycoumarin

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C9H6O3
CAS number
1076-38-6
IUPAC name
2-hydroxychromen-4-one
State
State

4-Hydroxycoumarin is typically found as a solid at room temperature. It is stable under normal conditions and does not sublime or evaporate readily. It is essentially odorless.

Melting point (Celsius)
208.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
481.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
321.40
Boiling point (Kelvin)
594.55
General information
Molecular weight
162.14g/mol
Molar mass
162.1410g/mol
Density
1.3874g/cm3
Appearence

4-Hydroxycoumarin appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is known for its distinct crystalline structure, which may appear as fine crystals under microscopic examination.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-hydroxychromen-4-one

2-hydroxychromen-4-one, also known as coumarin, exhibits intriguing solubility properties that can be summarized as follows:

  • Solvent Compatibility: It is moderately soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and methanol, making it suitable for applications in organic synthesis and extraction processes.
  • Water Solubility: However, its solubility in water is quite limited. This is attributed to its predominantly hydrophobic characteristic, which restricts interaction with polar water molecules.
  • Influencing Factors: Factors such as temperature, pH levels, and the presence of other solutes can significantly affect its solubility. For instance, an increase in temperature generally enhances the solubility of most organic compounds.

It is essential to consider these aspects when handling 2-hydroxychromen-4-one in various chemical processes, as they can strongly influence both the efficiency and effectiveness of reactions in which it is involved. Understanding the solubility behavior of this compound offers vast potential in fields such as pharmaceuticals and food chemistry.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-Hydroxychromen-4-one

2-Hydroxychromen-4-one, commonly known as coumarin, is a remarkable compound that is well-known for its diverse biological activities and applications. Here are some captivating aspects of this intriguing molecule:

  • Flavors and Fragrances: Coumarin has a sweet, vanilla-like scent, making it a popular ingredient in perfumes and flavorings. It's often used to enhance the aroma of many food products and cosmetic items.
  • Medicinal Properties: This compound is not just about pleasing scents; it has impressive pharmacological properties. Studies have shown that 2-hydroxychromen-4-one exhibits anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, and antimicrobial activities, which contribute to its potential as a therapeutic agent.
  • Natural Occurrence: Coumarin is naturally found in several plants, including tonka beans, cinnamon, and sweet clover. Its presence in these plants adds to their medicinal and aromatic qualities.
  • Traditional Uses: Historically, coumarin has been used in traditional medicine practices, particularly for its ability to promote circulation and its usefulness as a blood thinner.
  • Role in Synthetic Chemistry: 2-Hydroxychromen-4-one serves as a versatile building block in organic synthesis. Chemists often utilize it to create a variety of other chemical compounds, including pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.

As you can see, the allure of 2-hydroxychromen-4-one extends far beyond its structure. Its unique combination of properties makes it a subject of interest in both scientific research and industrial applications. With ongoing studies, who knows what new discoveries await in the world of this fascinating compound?