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Menthol

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Identification
Molecular formula
C10H20O
CAS number
89-78-1
IUPAC name
2,6,6-trimethylnorpinan-2-ol
State
State

Menthol is typically a solid at room temperature, appearing as a colorless crystalline substance. It is often used in medicinal preparations and as a flavoring agent.

Melting point (Celsius)
34.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
307.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
212.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
485.15
General information
Molecular weight
156.27g/mol
Molar mass
156.2650g/mol
Density
0.8902g/cm3
Appearence

Menthol is a waxy, crystalline substance, clear or white in color, which is solid at room temperature and melts slightly above. It can appear in the form of small, colorless needle-like crystals. Menthol has a characteristic pleasant minty odor and taste, which provides a cooling sensation. This cooling effect is due to its action on nerve endings sensitive to temperature.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2,6,6-trimethylnorpinan-2-ol

The solubility of 2,6,6-trimethylnorpinan-2-ol presents some interesting characteristics due to its unique chemical structure. This compound is primarily categorized as a tertiary alcohol, which influences its interactions with solvents.

Here are some key points about its solubility:

  • Polar Nature: As an alcohol, 2,6,6-trimethylnorpinan-2-ol contains a hydroxyl group (-OH) that contributes to its polar characteristics, enhancing solubility in polar solvents like water.
  • Hydrophobic Effects: The bulky alkyl groups surrounding the hydroxyl group may lead to some hydrophobic behavior, making the compound less soluble in highly polar solvents compared to smaller alcohols.
  • Solvent Compatibility: This compound tends to be more soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone, which can accommodate its non-polar characteristics better than water.
  • Temperature Influence: Like many organic compounds, its solubility may also vary significantly with temperature, typically increasing at higher temperatures.

In summary, while 2,6,6-trimethylnorpinan-2-ol is soluble in several polar and non-polar solvents, the balance between its polar hydroxyl group and the hydrophobic bulkiness of its structure affects its overall solubility profile.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2,6,6-Trimethylnorpinan-2-ol

2,6,6-Trimethylnorpinan-2-ol is an intriguing organic compound that has sparked interest in various fields due to its unique structural properties and potential applications. Here are some captivating insights about this compound:

  • Structural Design: The compound is notable for its bicyclic structure, which presents an interesting challenge for chemists. The presence of multiple methyl groups contributes to its stereochemistry, making it a subject of study in conformation analysis.
  • Synthesis: The synthesis of 2,6,6-trimethylnorpinan-2-ol involves intricate reactions that can highlight the intricacies of organic chemistry. It typically utilizes advanced synthetic strategies, which can be a rewarding topic for laboratory exercises.
  • Biological Relevance: This compound has been studied for its possible biological activities. The presence of hydroxyl functional groups can influence its interactions with biological systems, thus making it of interest in medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry.
  • Chirality: The stereochemical arrangement of 2,6,6-trimethylnorpinan-2-ol means that it can exist as different enantiomers. Chirality is a critical concept in chemistry, particularly in drug development, where the activity can differ dramatically between enantiomers.
  • Applications: Research has indicated that compounds like 2,6,6-trimethylnorpinan-2-ol may have applications in fragrance and flavor industries, given their potential sweet and aromatic characteristics.

As chemists delve deeper into the properties and potentials of this compound, it underscores broader themes in chemistry such as the relationship between structure and function, the significance of stereochemistry, and the importance of reaction mechanisms in organic synthesis.

Whether you're a student or a seasoned scientist, 2,6,6-trimethylnorpinan-2-ol exemplifies how even less common compounds can hold significance in various scientific domains.

Synonyms
2-PINANOL
473-54-1
Pinanol
2,6,6-Trimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]heptan-2-ol
HSDB 5663
EINECS 207-466-6
Bicyclo[3.1.1]heptan-2-ol, 2,6,6-trimethyl-
UNII-5DZK63N3UU
5DZK63N3UU
DTXSID5029180
Bicyclo(3.1.1)heptan-2-ol, 2,6,6-trimethyl-
2,6,6-trimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]heptane-3-ol
2,6,6-Trimethylbicyclo(3.1.1)heptane-3-ol
2,6,6-TRIMETHYLBICYCLO(3.1.1)HEPTAN-2-OL
2-PINANOL [HSDB]
DTXCID509180
2,6,6Trimethylbicyclo(3.1.1)heptane2ol
Bicyclo(3.1.1)heptan2ol, 2,6,6trimethyl
un1325
PINANOL 85
(E)-Pinene hydrate
(E)-Pinan-2-ol
(E)-2-pinanol
.beta.-Pinene hydroxide
UNII-Q3IVK90KUD
SCHEMBL221185
2,6,6-Trimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]heptan-2-ol-, (1R,2R,5S)-rel-
2,6,6-Trimethylbicyclo(3.1.1)heptan-2-ol, (1.alpha.,2.beta.,5.alpha.)-
STK055118
AKOS005385976
NS00013153
Bicyclo(3.1.1)heptan-2-ol, 2,6,6-trimethyl-, (1alpha,2beta,5alpha)-