Skip to main content

Carnitine

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C7H15NO3
CAS number
541-15-1
IUPAC name
(2R,3R)-2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate;trimethyl-[3-methyl-6-(trimethylammonio)hexyl]ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, carnitine is a solid. Specifically, it is a crystalline powder that is quite stable under normal conditions.

Melting point (Celsius)
197.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
470.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
161.20g/mol
Molar mass
161.1990g/mol
Density
1.1700g/cm3
Appearence

Carnitine is typically a white crystalline powder. It is also hygroscopic, which means it can absorb moisture from the air.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (2R,3R)-2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate; trimethyl-[3-methyl-6-(trimethylammonio)hexyl]ammonium

The solubility of this compound can be quite intriguing due to its complex structure. This compound includes both hydrophilic and hydrophobic components, leading to varying solubility behaviors in different solvents.

Factors Influencing Solubility

  • Hydrophilicity: The presence of multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups in the trihydroxybutanoate portion significantly enhances solubility in polar solvents such as water.
  • Hydrophobicity: The trimethylammonium component introduces hydrophobic characteristics, which can lead to reduced solubility in pure water but may enhance solubility in organic solvents.
  • Ionization: The ammonium group could undergo ionization in solution, increasing solubility in aqueous environments depending on pH levels.

In summary, this compound's solubility can be described as:

  1. High in polar solvents.
  2. Variable in organic solvents, depending on the hydrophobic interactions.
  3. Dependent on pH, especially regarding the ionization of the ammonium group.

Understanding these factors allows for a better prediction of how this compound will behave in various environments and can inform its applications in fields such as pharmaceuticals and materials science.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (2R,3R)-2,3,4-Trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate; Trimethyl-[3-methyl-6-(trimethylammonio)hexyl]ammonium

The compound (2R,3R)-2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate; trimethyl-[3-methyl-6-(trimethylammonio)hexyl]ammonium represents a fascinating intersection of biochemistry and material science. Here are some compelling aspects of this unique compound:

  • Chiral Centers: The "2R,3R" notation indicates the presence of chiral centers in the molecule, making it optically active. This feature is essential in biological systems where the chirality of compounds can influence their reactivity and biological activity.
  • Hydroxyl Groups: The multiple hydroxyl groups (-OH) highlight the compound's potential for hydrogen bonding, which can enhance solubility in polar solvents and play a critical role in biological interactions.
  • Role in Synthesis: As a derivative of butanoic acid, this compound may serve as an intermediate in various synthetic pathways, particularly in the development of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
  • Trimethylammonium Group: The presence of the trimethylammonio functional group adds a quaternary ammonium character, which can contribute to the compound's surfactant properties. This feature opens up avenues for its use in formulations, particularly in biocompatible materials.
  • Biological Applications: Due to its structural features, this compound may exhibit interesting biological activities, such as antimicrobial properties or interactions with cell membranes, making it a candidate for further research in drug design and development.

In conclusion, (2R,3R)-2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate; trimethyl-[3-methyl-6-(trimethylammonio)hexyl]ammonium is more than just a chemical compound; it embodies significant potential for innovation in various scientific fields. Understanding its properties and applications could lead to exciting developments in materials science and medicinal chemistry.