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Coenzyme Q10

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Identification
Molecular formula
C59H90O4
CAS number
303-98-0
IUPAC name
2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-(3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadeca-2,6,10,14-tetraenyl)-1,4-benzoquinone
State
State

At room temperature, coenzyme Q10 is a solid. It is usually processed into a fine crystalline powder for use in dietary supplements and research applications.

Melting point (Celsius)
48.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
321.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
609.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
882.15
General information
Molecular weight
863.37g/mol
Molar mass
863.3660g/mol
Density
0.9601g/cm3
Appearence

Coenzyme Q10, also known as ubiquinone, appears as an orange crystalline powder. It is typically insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. The compound is often encapsulated in supplements for better absorption due to its poor water solubility.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2,3-Dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-(3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadeca-2,6,10,14-tetraenyl)-1,4-benzoquinone

The solubility of 2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-(3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadeca-2,6,10,14-tetraenyl)-1,4-benzoquinone can be understood by considering its molecular structure and functional groups. As a complex organic compound, its solubility is influenced by several factors:

  • Polarity: The presence of methoxy groups introduces polar characteristics, which can enhance solubility in polar solvents.
  • Hydrophobic Alkyl Chains: The long tetramethylhexadeca chains are hydrophobic, potentially limiting solubility in water but favoring solubility in non-polar organic solvents.
  • Branching and Size: The branched structure and large molecular size may contribute to steric hindrance, affecting how easily the compound dissolves in various solvents.

In general, one could expect that 2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-(3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadeca-2,6,10,14-tetraenyl)-1,4-benzoquinone would exhibit:

  • Good solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and chloroform.
  • Limited solubility in water, due to the substantial hydrophobic sections that dominate its structure.

When attempting to dissolve this compound, it would be highly recommended to choose solvents that balance both polar and non-polar characteristics for the best results.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2,3-Dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-(3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadeca-2,6,10,14-tetraenyl)-1,4-benzoquinone

This intriguing compound, commonly known for its vivid chemical structure and significant biological properties, falls under the category of benzoquinones. In particular, this compound is notable because:

  • Natural Occurrence: It is often found in various plant species, where it plays a vital role in protecting the plant against herbivores and pathogens.
  • Colorful Chemistry: The compound's unique structure contributes to its vibrant color, which has implications in natural dyes and coloring agents in different industries.
  • Antioxidant Potential: Compounds like this one are celebrated for their antioxidant properties, providing protection against oxidative stress which can lead to numerous diseases.
  • Pharmaceutical Relevance: Research indicates that benzoquinones can possess antibacterial and antifungal activities, making them of interest for pharmaceutical applications.
  • Biochemical Pathways: This compound is thought to influence various metabolic pathways within organisms, often serving as an intermediate in biosynthetic processes.

Furthermore, it's essential to consider that the configuration of the long aliphatic chain integrated within its structure can impact the compound's biological activities. As a chemistry student or scientist, one may find that compounds with similar frameworks draw attention in studies related to synthesis and drug development.

In the words of renowned chemist R.B. Woodward, "The true measure of a compound's importance lies not only in its structure but in the pathways it can unlock." Hence, the study of 2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-(3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadeca-2,6,10,14-tetraenyl)-1,4-benzoquinone promises to reveal much about both natural processes and synthetic applications.

Synonyms
NS00126597