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2-Methylbutanoic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C5H10O2
CAS number
116-53-0
IUPAC name
2-methylbutanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, 2-methylbutanoic acid is in the liquid state.

Melting point (Celsius)
-30.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
242.70
Boiling point (Celsius)
176.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
449.70
General information
Molecular weight
102.13g/mol
Molar mass
102.1320g/mol
Density
0.9334g/cm3
Appearence

2-Methylbutanoic acid is a colorless liquid with a characteristic, pungent odor that is often compared to that of cheese. It is a carboxylic acid and is generally clear and oily in nature.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-methylbutanoic acid

2-methylbutanoic acid, also known as isovaleric acid, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics due to its molecular structure.

Solubility in Water

This compound is slightly soluble in water, which can be attributed to its carboxylic acid functional group. The presence of the polar -COOH group allows for some degree of hydrogen bonding with water molecules. However, due to the hydrophobic nature imparted by the long carbon chain, the overall solubility remains limited.

Solubility in Organic Solvents

Conversely, 2-methylbutanoic acid is highly soluble in organic solvents such as:

  • Alcohols
  • Esters
  • Acetone
  • Chloroform

These solvents enhance the solubility due to their similar non-polar characteristics, effectively reducing the energy barrier for dissolution.

Factors Affecting Solubility

The solubility of 2-methylbutanoic acid can be influenced by several factors, including:

  • Temperature: Increasing temperature generally increases solubility, particularly in organic solvents.
  • pH: The ionization state of the carboxylic acid group can affect solubility in aqueous solutions.
  • Presence of other solutes: Solutes that share similar polarity characteristics can enhance solubility through solvation effects.

In conclusion, while 2-methylbutanoic acid shows limited solubility in water, it thrives in organic solvents, demonstrating the diverse nature of compound solubility based on environmental conditions and structural features.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-Methylbutanoic Acid

2-Methylbutanoic acid, a fascinating member of the carboxylic acid family, is known for its unique structure and diverse applications in various fields. This compound is commonly found in the realm of organic chemistry, and here are some key insights about it:

  • Structure and Isomerism: 2-Methylbutanoic acid is characterized by its branched-chain structure. It has a unique ability to exist in different isomeric forms, showcasing the importance of molecular structure in influencing chemical properties.
  • Biological Relevance: Interestingly, this acid plays a role in the metabolism of certain organisms. It is a part of fatty acid synthesis processes, contributing to the overall biochemical pathways in living systems.
  • Flavor and Fragrance: 2-Methylbutanoic acid is known for imparting a distinct flavor to various food products. Its presence can be detected in certain cheeses and fermented foods, fascinating chefs and food scientists alike. The compound's unique smell also adds value in the fragrance industry.
  • Industrial Applications: Beyond its culinary significance, 2-methylbutanoic acid is utilized in the production of esters, which are essential in the creation of solvents and plasticizers. This broadens its applications in industries ranging from manufacturing to agriculture.
  • Environmental Impact: Like many organic compounds, the environmental behavior of 2-methylbutanoic acid is of scientific interest. Researchers study its potential biodegradability and interaction with ecosystems, contributing to our understanding of sustainable chemistry.

In summary, 2-methylbutanoic acid is a compound that exemplifies the complexity and utility of organic molecules. With its unique characteristics, it serves as a bridge between chemistry, biology, and industry, creating a rich area for exploration and study.

Synonyms
2-Methylbutanoic acid
2-METHYLBUTYRIC ACID
116-53-0
DL-2-Methylbutyric acid
Butanoic acid, 2-methyl-
Ethylmethylacetic acid
2-Methyl butyric acid
600-07-7
Carbomer 934
Methylethylacetic acid
2-Methybutyric acid
Active valeric acid
Butyric acid, 2-methyl-
alpha-Methylbutyric acid
9007-16-3
Methylbutyric acid
(+/-)-2-Methylbutyric acid
2-methyl-butanoic acid
FEMA No. 2695
alpha-methyl butyric Acid
NSC 7304
2-methyl-butyric acid
PX7ZNN5GXK
MFCD00002669
.alpha.-Methylbutyric acid
DL-2-Methyl-d3-butyricAcid
DTXSID5021621
CHEBI:37070
NSC-7304
Synthalen M; Acrypol 934
Carbopol 934
DTXCID301621
Valeric acid, active
Carbomer 934 (Technical Grade)
Butanoic acid, methyl-
Methylbutyricacid
2-Methylbutyric acid (VAN)
CAS-116-53-0
Carbopol 974P
2-Methylbutyric acid (natrual)
(+)-2-methylbutanoic acid
UNII-PX7ZNN5GXK
EINECS 204-145-2
EINECS 209-982-7
(R)-2-Methylbutyric Acid-d3
(1)-2-Methylbutyric acid
BRN 1098537
AI3-24202
MFCD09029093
Ethylmethylacetate
2-Ethylpropionate
2-Methyl Butyrate
2-METHYLBUTANOIC ACID (DL)
2-Methylbutanoicacid
Pokty(acrylic acid)
DL-2-Methylbutyrate
2-Ethylpropionic acid
D-2-Methyl Butyrate
DL-2-Methy Butyrate
butane-2-carboxylic acid
rac-2-methylbutanoic acid
D-2-Methyl Butyric acid
DL-2-Methy Butyric acid
(+/-)-2-Methylbutyrate
EC 204-145-2
SCHEMBL49960
2-Methyl-Butyric Acid Anion
2-Methylbutyric acid, 98%
(RS)-2-methyl-butyric acid
4-02-00-00889 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
MLS001055480
Carbomer 934 [USAN:NF]
CHEMBL1160012
NSC7304
(.+/-.)-2-Methylbutanoic acid
HMS2270O06
2-METHYLBUTYRIC ACID, DL-
1346617-08-0
2-METHYLBUTYRIC ACID [FCC]
2-METHYLBUTYRIC ACID [FHFI]
Tox21_201807
Tox21_303584
LMFA01020072
2-Methylbutyric acid, >=98%, FG
Butanoic acid, 2-methyl-, (+ -)
DL-.ALPHA.-METHYLBUTYRIC ACID
AKOS000121120
AKOS016843247
CS-W001942
FC44408
SB47880
NCGC00090971-01
NCGC00090971-02
NCGC00257513-01
NCGC00259356-01
2-Methylbutyric acid, analytical standard
FM159331
PD041098
SMR000112113
SY115833
Methyl-2 Butyric Acid (Optically Active)
DB-003300
M0181
NS00007338
EN300-27063
C18319
Q209433
(+/-)-2-Methylbutyric acid, natural, >=98%, FG
F0001-0289
Z237374874
(2R)-(-)-2-methylbutyric acid;R)-(-)-2-methylbutanoic acid