Skip to main content

Pivalic acid

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C7H14O2
CAS number
75-98-9
IUPAC name
2,2-dimethylpentanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, pivalic acid is typically a crystalline solid. It transitions from solid to liquid slightly above room temperature, at approximately 34°C, making it somewhat unique among carboxylic acids as they often have higher melting points.

Melting point (Celsius)
34.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
307.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
164.70
Boiling point (Kelvin)
437.90
General information
Molecular weight
116.16g/mol
Molar mass
116.1580g/mol
Density
0.9254g/cm3
Appearence

Pivalic acid is a white crystalline solid. It is odorless in its pure form, although it may be perceived to have an odor due to impurities or decomposition. The solid appears as flat, plate-like crystals and is typically handled in powdered form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2,2-Dimethylpentanoic Acid

2,2-Dimethylpentanoic acid, with the chemical formula C7H14O2, showcases unique solubility characteristics due to its molecular structure. Being a carboxylic acid, it can interact with water molecules through hydrogen bonding, which often enhances its solubility in polar solvents such as water. Here are some important aspects of its solubility:

  • Polar Nature: The carboxylic acid functional group (-COOH) is polar, which contributes to its ability to dissolve in polar environments.
  • Hydrophobic Interaction: The branched hydrocarbon tail may present some hydrophobic characteristics, potentially reducing solubility in highly polar solvents.
  • Solvent Compatibility: 2,2-Dimethylpentanoic acid is more soluble in organic solvents than in water, making it a versatile compound for various applications.

In summary, while 2,2-dimethylpentanoic acid can dissolve in water, its solubility will generally be higher in organic solvents due to its structure. This duality in solubility characteristics highlights the importance of considering solvent choice when working with this compound.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2,2-Dimethylpentanoic Acid

2,2-Dimethylpentanoic acid is a fascinating compound that belongs to the family of carboxylic acids. It is classified as a branched-chain fatty acid, which contributes to its unique chemical and physical properties. Here are some intriguing aspects to consider:

  • Structure and Isomerism: The compound's structure features two methyl groups attached to the second carbon of the pentanoic acid backbone. This branching leads to interesting isomerism; while 2,2-dimethylpentanoic acid is a specific structure, its variations exhibit differing properties and reactivities.
  • Biological Relevance: Fatty acids like 2,2-dimethylpentanoic acid play significant roles in biological systems. Their characteristics influence membrane fluidity and the synthesis of biologically active lipids, making them vital for cellular functions.
  • Industrial Applications: This compound can be utilized in organic synthesis and as an intermediate in the production of various chemicals. Its unique structure provides pathways for creating specialized compounds used in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and surfactants.
  • Analytical Chemistry: In analytical chemistry, 2,2-dimethylpentanoic acid can serve as a standard for calibrating instruments or as a reference compound in chromatography due to its distinct retention time.
  • Research Potential: The compound has caught the attention of researchers studying fatty acids and their derivatives. Investigations focus on how alterations in the molecular structure can influence both physical properties and biological activity, opening doors for innovative applications.

With its unique structural characteristics and diverse applications, 2,2-dimethylpentanoic acid exemplifies the rich complexity of organic chemistry. As emphasized by many chemists, "Understanding the nature of compounds like these leads to breakthroughs in both science and industry." Studying such compounds can truly enhance our knowledge of molecular interactions and their significance in various fields.

Synonyms
2,2-Dimethylpentanoic acid
1185-39-3
2,2-DIMETHYLVALERIC ACID
Pentanoic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-
Valeric acid, 2,2-dimethyl-
alpha,alpha-Dimethylvaleric acid
EINECS 214-682-4
.alpha.,.alpha.-Dimethylvaleric acid
NSC 61983
BRN 1747703
NSC-61983
95233IS466
DTXSID70152141
2,2-dimethylvalerate
DTXCID5074632
Pentanoic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-(9CI)
214-682-4
alpha,alpha-dimethyl valeric acid
MFCD00021686
2,2-dimethyl pentanoic acid
2,2-dimethyl-pentanoic acid
2,2-Dimethylpentanoic Acid, Pract.
UNII-95233IS466
2,2-Dimethylpentanoicacid
Valeric acid,2-dimethyl-
2,2-dimethyl valeric acid
Pentanoic acid,2-dimethyl-
2,2-dimethyl-n-valeric acid
SCHEMBL276239
2,2,-dimethyl-pentanoic acid
CHEMBL4871957
CHEBI:180000
2,2-Dimethylvaleric Acid, Pract.
NSC61983
LMFA01020085
AKOS009156424
FD30067
2,2-Dimethylvaleric acid, >=97.0%
LS-13333
SY004294
2,2-Dimethylpentanoic acid;Neoheptanoic acid
CS-0205424
D2320
NS00023818
D90044
EN300-265881
Q27271724
F8883-9292
InChI=1/C7H14O2/c1-4-5-7(2,3)6(8)9/h4-5H2,1-3H3,(H,8,9