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Xylenesulfonic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C8H10O3S
CAS number
25321-41-9
IUPAC name
2,5-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid;2,6-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid;3,5-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid
State
State

At room temperature, xylenesulfonic acid is typically in a solid state. Since it is hygroscopic, it may appear slightly wet or clump together if it absorbs moisture from the air.

Melting point (Celsius)
90.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
363.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
315.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
588.15
General information
Molecular weight
186.23g/mol
Molar mass
186.2290g/mol
Density
0.9900g/cm3
Appearence

Xylenesulfonic acids appear as white to off-white crystalline solids or powders. They are hygroscopic, meaning they tend to absorb moisture from the air. These compounds may appear slightly oily due to this tendency when exposed to humid conditions. Their exact appearance might vary slightly depending on isomer purity and environmental factors.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2,5-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid, 2,6-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid, and 3,5-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid

The solubility characteristics of the compounds 2,5-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid, 2,6-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid, and 3,5-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid are influenced by their unique sulfonic acid functional group and branched alkyl substituents. Here are some key points:

  • Water Solubility: These compounds are generally soluble in water due to the presence of the sulfonic acid group, which can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules.
  • Organic Solubility: They may have variable solubility in organic solvents, influenced by the size and position of the methyl groups on the benzene ring.
  • Effect of pH: As acidic compounds, their solubility can change with pH; higher pH levels may enhance their ionization, increasing solubility.
  • Temperature Impact: Increasing temperature generally leads to higher solubility for such acids, reflecting typical behavior observed in many solutes.

It's important to consider the structural differences among these isomers, which can impact interaction with solvents:

  1. Hydrophobic Interactions: Methyl substituents can create steric hindrance, leading to differences in solubility among the isomers.
  2. Polar Effects: The positioning of the sulfonic acid group greatly affects polarity and thus solubility in polar solvents.

In summary, while all three compounds can display good solubility in water, their overall solubility profiles in various solvents can vary significantly based on their structural nuances and environmental conditions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2,5-Dimethylbenzenesulfonic Acid, 2,6-Dimethylbenzenesulfonic Acid, and 3,5-Dimethylbenzenesulfonic Acid

These three compounds, known collectively as dimethylbenzenesulfonic acids, belong to the family of aromatic sulfonic acids. They have unique properties and applications in both industrial and laboratory settings. Here are some interesting facts to consider:

  • Structural Diversity: Each compound features a sulfonic acid group attached to a dimethyl-substituted benzene ring, showcasing the variance in the position of the methyl groups on the aromatic ring. This positional difference can significantly affect the reactivity and properties of each acid.
  • Industrial Uses: Dimethylbenzenesulfonic acids serve as crucial intermediates in the synthesis of dyes, surfactants, and pharmaceuticals. Their ability to act as strong acids makes them valuable in organic reactions, particularly in the manufacturing of other chemical compounds.
  • Acidity Importance: The presence of the sulfonic acid group contributes to the acidity of these compounds, making them useful in processes that require proton donation. In chemistry, acids play essential roles in catalysis and pH regulation in various reactions.
  • Environmental Considerations: As with many industrial compounds, the environmental impact of dimethylbenzenesulfonic acids necessitates careful handling. Studies often focus on their biodegradability and potential toxicity, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices in their use and disposal.
  • Research Applications: These compounds are often subjects of ongoing research. Scientists investigate their behavior in reaction mechanisms, which contributes to a deeper understanding of sulfonic acids and their derivatives.

In summary, 2,5-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid, 2,6-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid, and 3,5-dimethylbenzenesulfonic acid each hold a distinct place in the realm of organic chemistry, showcasing the intricate nature of substituent placement on aromatic compounds. Their diverse applications continue to make them relevant in ongoing chemical studies and industrial applications.