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Phenethyl butyrate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C12H16O2
CAS number
103-52-6
IUPAC name
2-phenylethyl butanoate
State
State

At room temperature, phenethyl butyrate exists as a liquid.

Melting point (Celsius)
-60.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
213.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
240.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
513.15
General information
Molecular weight
192.26g/mol
Molar mass
192.2590g/mol
Density
1.0159g/cm3
Appearence

Phenethyl butyrate is a colorless liquid with a pleasant, fruity odor often described as reminiscent of apricots or pineapples. Due to its aromatic properties, it is commonly used in fragrances and flavorings.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-phenylethyl butanoate

2-phenylethyl butanoate, a compound formed from the esterification of butanoic acid and 2-phenylethanol, presents interesting solubility characteristics. Understanding its solubility is crucial for various applications in organic synthesis and flavor production.

Solubility in Different Solvents

This compound exhibits varying solubility in different solvents:

  • Polar solvents: 2-phenylethyl butanoate is generally insoluble in water, a common trait among esters due to their hydrophobic chains.
  • Non-polar solvents: It shows good solubility in organic solvents such as hexane, ether, and chloroform.
  • Alcohols: Moderate solubility can also be expected in alcohols, given their ability to interact through hydrogen bonding yet still preserve the readability of the hydrocarbon portion.

Influencing Factors

The solubility of 2-phenylethyl butanoate can be influenced by various factors:

  • Temperature: Increased temperature typically enhances solubility in a given solvent.
  • Polarity: The relative polarity of the solvent plays a significant role; solvents of similar polarity will generally solvate the compound more effectively.
  • Chain Length: The length of the carbon chain in both the solvent and solute can impact the degree of solubility.

In conclusion, while 2-phenylethyl butanoate shows low solubility in water, it can readily dissolve in non-polar organic solvents, making it suitable for various applications in chemical processes. As the saying goes, "like dissolves like," which embodies the principle of solubility that governs the behavior of this ester.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-Phenylethyl Butanoate

2-Phenylethyl butanoate, also known as ethyl 2-phenylbutanoate, is an intriguing compound that has captured the attention of both chemists and flavorists alike due to its unique properties and applications. Here are some fascinating aspects of this compound:

  • Flavor and Aroma: This compound is celebrated for its delightful fruity and floral aroma, reminiscent of apples and flowers. It is widely used in the food industry as a flavoring agent, enhancing the sensory profile of various products.
  • Natural Occurrence: Interestingly, 2-phenylethyl butanoate is found in multiple natural sources, including certain fruits and essential oils. This natural occurrence makes it more appealing for use in organic and natural flavors.
  • Chemical Synthesis: The synthesis of this ester can be achieved through the Fischer esterification reaction, which involves the reaction of an acid with an alcohol in the presence of an acid catalyst. This method is not only efficient but also versatile for producing various esters.
  • Applications Beyond Food: Beyond its culinary uses, 2-phenylethyl butanoate is utilized in the cosmetic and fragrance industries. Its pleasant scent makes it a common ingredient in perfumes and scented products.
  • Biological Interest: Some studies have indicated that compounds like 2-phenylethyl butanoate may exhibit antimicrobial properties, which could be beneficial in developing natural preservatives for food products.

Quote from Chemists: "The beauty of esters lies not only in their flavors but in their chemistry and the stories they tell about nature's complexity." This statement encapsulates the charm of 2-phenylethyl butanoate as it bridges the gap between chemistry and sensory experience.

Overall, 2-phenylethyl butanoate embodies the intersection of flavor chemistry and practical applications, making it a compound of considerable interest in various scientific and commercial fields.

Synonyms
Phenethyl butyrate
103-52-6
2-Phenylethyl butanoate
Phenylethyl butyrate
Butanoic acid, 2-phenylethyl ester
2-Phenethyl butanoate
Benzylcarbinyl butyrate
Phenethyl butanoate
2-Phenylethyl butyrate
BUTYRIC ACID, PHENETHYL ESTER
beta-Phenethyl n-butanoate
FEMA No. 2861
Phenethyl butyrate (natural)
beta-Phenylethyl butyrate
NSC 1271
.beta.-Phenylethyl butyrate
EINECS 203-119-8
UNII-02E08ZN98R
BRN 1955788
DTXSID6047604
CHEBI:87413
AI3-02954
butanoic acid 2-phenylethyl ester
02E08ZN98R
NSC-1271
NSC-406207
.beta.-Phenethyl n-butanoate
.beta.-Phenylethyl n-butyrate
DTXCID4027604
PHENETHYL BUTYRATE [FHFI]
PHENYLETHYL BUTYRATE [FCC]
beta -phenylethyl butyrate
beta-Phenylethyl n-butyrate
beta -phenethyl N-butanoate
beta -phenylethyl N-butyrate
SCHEMBL585144
CHEMBL3187974
FEMA 2861
NSC1271
AAA10352
Tox21_302607
NSC406207
AKOS015964870
Phenethyl butyrate, >=98%, FCC, FG
NCGC00256919-01
AS-57067
CAS-103-52-6
DB-040460
NS00013111
E79212
Q10864412
203-119-8