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Canthaxanthin

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Identification
Molecular formula
C40H52O2
CAS number
514-78-3
IUPAC name
2,4,4-trimethyl-3-[3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-trimethyl-3-oxo-cyclohexen-1-yl)octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]cyclohex-2-en-1-one
State
State

At room temperature, canthaxanthin is a solid compound, typically forming as crystalline powder. It is stable under normal conditions.

Melting point (Celsius)
216.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
489.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
500.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
773.15
General information
Molecular weight
564.88g/mol
Molar mass
564.8760g/mol
Density
1.4000g/cm3
Appearence

Canthaxanthin typically appears as a red-orange crystalline powder. It is commonly used as a colorant and has characteristic pigmentation properties.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2,4,4-trimethyl-3-[3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-trimethyl-3-oxo-cyclohexen-1-yl)octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]cyclohex-2-en-1-one

The solubility of this complex organic compound can be quite intriguing due to its multiple functional groups and long hydrocarbon chains. Here are some points to consider:

  • Polarity: This compound features both polar (due to the presence of the carbonyl group) and nonpolar characteristics (long hydrocarbon chains), influencing its solubility in various solvents.
  • Solvent Compatibility: It is likely to be more soluble in nonpolar solvents such as hexane or chloroform, while having reduced solubility in polar solvents like water.
  • Intermolecular Forces: The presence of multiple alkyl groups can enhance hydrophobic interactions, making solubility in polar environments challenging.
  • Temperature Effects: An increase in temperature typically promotes solubility in solvents, potentially allowing for better dissolution of this compound in organic solvents at higher temperatures.

In conclusion, the solubility of this compound is significantly influenced by its molecular structure. Understanding these solubility characteristics is essential for applications in chemical formulations, as they directly affect the compound's behavior in various environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2,4,4-Trimethyl-3-[3,7,12,16-Tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-Trimethyl-3-Oxo-Cyclohexen-1-Yl)Octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-Nonaenyl]Cyclohex-2-En-1-One

This fascinating compound belongs to a class of organic molecules known for their complex structures and unique properties. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Natural Occurrence: Compounds of this nature are often found in various plants and natural sources, functioning as pigments or attracting pollinators with their vibrant colors.
  • Biological Activity: Many structurally similar compounds are known for their biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, making them subjects of interest in pharmaceutical research.
  • Applications in Industry: Due to their unique properties, such compounds are extensively studied for applications in the cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical industries, particularly for their potential use as flavoring agents and fragrances.
  • Analytical Challenges: The intricate structure of this compound may pose analytical challenges in terms of characterization and isolation, necessitating advanced techniques such as NMR and mass spectrometry for proper identification.
  • Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR): Understanding the relationship between the molecular structure and biological activity is a key area of research, helping scientists design more effective compounds with desired properties.

In summary, this compound presents a compelling blend of chemical complexity and potential utility, making it an exciting area of study for both researchers and industry professionals alike.

Synonyms
SpecPlus_000679
DivK1c_006775
KBio1_001719
DTXSID60859435
CHEBI:181204
2,4,4-trimethyl-3-[3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-trimethyl-3-oxocyclohexen-1-yl)octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]cyclohex-2-en-1-one
DB-051967
2,4,4-TRIMETHYL-3-[3,7,12,16-TETRAMETHYL-18-(2,6,6-TRIMETHYL-3-OXOCYCLOHEX-1-EN-1-YL)OCTADECA-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-NONAEN-1-YL]CYCLOHEX-2-EN-1-ONE