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Retinal

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Identification
Molecular formula
C20H28O
CAS number
116-31-4
IUPAC name
2,6,10-trimethyldodeca-2,6,9,11-tetraenal
State
State

At room temperature, retinal exists as a solid, usually in the form of crystals or a crystalline powder. Its stability can be influenced by light and oxygen, requiring storage under controlled conditions to maintain its structure and activity.

Melting point (Celsius)
63.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
336.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
388.20
Boiling point (Kelvin)
661.35
General information
Molecular weight
284.43g/mol
Molar mass
284.4330g/mol
Density
0.9445g/cm3
Appearence

Retinal typically appears as pale yellow crystals. Its appearance may vary slightly depending on its form and purity, but it generally maintains a yellowish hue.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2,6,10-trimethyldodeca-2,6,9,11-tetraenal

2,6,10-trimethyldodeca-2,6,9,11-tetraenal is a complex organic compound characterized by its elongated carbon chain and multiple double bonds. When considering its solubility, there are several factors to take into account:

  • Hydrophobic Nature: Due to its sizable hydrocarbon backbone, this compound exhibits hydrophobic properties, which generally leads to low solubility in water.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: On the other hand, 2,6,10-trimethyldodeca-2,6,9,11-tetraenal is likely to have good solubility in nonpolar organic solvents such as:
    • Hexane
    • Chloroform
    • Benzene
  • Intermolecular Forces: The presence of multiple double bonds might enhance interactions with nonpolar solvents, facilitating dissolution.
  • Temperature Effects: Solubility might increase with temperature, particularly in organic solvents, providing a broader range of conditions for practical use.

In summary, while 2,6,10-trimethyldodeca-2,6,9,11-tetraenal is expected to be insoluble in water, its solubility in various organic solvents makes it a compound of interest for applications in organic chemistry and related fields. The statement to remember is that “like dissolves like,” emphasizing the importance of matching polarities when assessing solubility.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2,6,10-trimethyldodeca-2,6,9,11-tetraenal

2,6,10-trimethyldodeca-2,6,9,11-tetraenal is a fascinating compound that plays a role in various areas of chemistry and biology. Here are some captivating aspects of this compound:

  • Structure and Complexity: This compound features a complex hydrocarbon skeleton with multiple double bonds, making it a member of the family of polyunsaturated aldehydes. The presence of multiple double bonds allows for significant reactivity, which is a key characteristic for many organic reactions.
  • Natural Occurrence: It is known to be present in several natural products, particularly in certain types of plants and essential oils. These compounds often contribute to the aromatic profiles of the plants, influencing their scents and flavors.
  • Biological Significance: Compounds like 2,6,10-trimethyldodeca-2,6,9,11-tetraenal can have important roles in biological systems. They may serve as pheromones or signaling molecules in various organisms, thereby influencing behavior and ecological interactions.
  • Source of Research: This compound is subject to ongoing research due to its potential implications in fields like organic synthesis and materials science. Particularly, its unique structure is a point of interest for scientists exploring new carbon backbone architectures.
  • Analytical Techniques: Researchers utilize various analytical methods, such as NMR and GC-MS, to probe the characteristics of this compound, helping to elucidate its structure and properties. These techniques are essential for confirming the identity and purity of organics in lab settings.

In summary, the study of 2,6,10-trimethyldodeca-2,6,9,11-tetraenal not only reveals the intricacies of organic chemistry but also highlights the interplay between chemical structure and biological function, enriching both scientific knowledge and practical applications.

Synonyms
2,6,9,11-Dodecatetraenal, 2,6,10-trimethyl-
DTXSID5063655
DTXCID8040696
PFSTYGCNVAVZBK-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SAA90977