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2-Methylpentyl acetate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C8H16O2
CAS number
42468-34-6
IUPAC name
2-methylpentyl acetate
State
State

At room temperature, 2-Methylpentyl acetate is a liquid. This compound is known for its volatility and aromatic properties which make it useful in various applications, particularly in perfumery and flavoring.

Melting point (Celsius)
-73.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
200.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
172.80
Boiling point (Kelvin)
445.95
General information
Molecular weight
144.21g/mol
Molar mass
144.2110g/mol
Density
0.8706g/cm3
Appearence

2-Methylpentyl acetate is a clear, colorless liquid with a fruity odor. This ester is often used in the fragrance industry for its pleasant smell, resembling that of pear or apple. It can also be found naturally in some fruits where it contributes to their flavor profile.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-Methylpentyl Acetate

2-Methylpentyl acetate, with the chemical formula C7H14O2, exhibits unique solubility characteristics that make it quite interesting within the realm of organic compounds.

General Solubility Characteristics

As an ester, 2-methylpentyl acetate typically displays the following solubility properties:

  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: This compound is generally soluble in non-polar and moderate polar organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform.
  • Aqueous Solubility: 2-Methylpentyl acetate is only slightly soluble in water. The presence of the acetate group provides limited hydrogen bonding capability, which restricts its solubility in polar solvents.
  • Temperature Effects: Like many organic compounds, its solubility can be affected by temperature changes, typically increasing with higher temperatures.

Factors Influencing Solubility

The solubility behavior of 2-methylpentyl acetate can be influenced by several factors:

  • Chain Length: The hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain reduces overall solubility in polar environments, contrasting with smaller esters.
  • Temperature: Increased temperature often improves solubility, allowing for more effective mixing in solvents.
  • Interactions with Solvents: Compatibility with solvent molecules plays a critical role. Its ability to form dipole-dipole interactions makes it more soluble in solvents with moderate polarity.

In summary, while the solubility of 2-methylpentyl acetate in water is limited due to its ester nature and larger carbon chain, it finds good solubility in various organic solvents, affirming its applicability in numerous chemical processes.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-Methylpentyl Acetate

2-Methylpentyl acetate, also known as isopentyl acetate, is an intriguing compound often recognized for its delightful fruity aroma, reminiscent of bananas. Here are some fascinating points about this compound:

  • Flavoring Agent: 2-Methylpentyl acetate is widely used in the food industry as a flavoring agent, popular for imparting a distinct banana flavor in various products, including candies, beverages, and baked goods.
  • Fragrance in Perfumes: Beyond its culinary uses, this compound plays a critical role in the fragrance industry, contributing a sweet, fruity scent to perfumes and personal care items.
  • Synthesis: The synthesis of 2-methylpentyl acetate is an engaging topic in organic chemistry. It can be produced through the esterification of 2-methylpentanol with acetic acid, highlighting the beautiful interplay between alcohols and acids in forming esters.
  • Biodegradability: As an organic ester, 2-methylpentyl acetate exhibits moderate biodegradability, making it more environmentally friendly than many synthetic alternatives.
  • Natural Occurrence: This compound can also be found naturally in certain fruits, contributing to their natural aroma and flavor, which showcases the connection between chemistry and nature.

In summary, 2-methylpentyl acetate isn't just a compound of interest in the lab, but it also sweetens our lives through its applications in flavoring and fragrance. As a chemistry student, exploring such compounds reveals the fascinating ways in which chemistry influences our senses and our environment.

Synonyms
2-Methylpentyl acetate
Acetic acid 2-methylpentyl ester
BRN 1749805
ACETIC ACID, 2-METHYLPENTYL ESTER
1-Pentanol, 2-methyl-, 1-acetate
DTXSID6052532
4-02-00-00160 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
DTXCID3031105
672-745-5
uztvuhtzggzfci-uhfffaoysa-n
7789-99-3
2-Methylamyl acetate
1-Pentanol, 2-methyl-, acetate
ACETICACID2-METHYLPENTYLESTER
Acetic acid, 2-methylamyl ester
2-Methylamylester kyseliny octove
2-Methylamylester kyseliny octove [Czech]
MFCD00060103
2-methyl-1-pentyl acetate
SCHEMBL1985053
A1079