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Sialic Acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C11H19NO9
CAS number
131-48-6
IUPAC name
(2R,3R,4R,5R)-2,3,5,6-tetrahydroxy-4-[(2S,3R,4S,5R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydropyran-2-yl]oxy-hexanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, sialic acid is typically in a solid state, specifically as a white crystalline powder. It is known for its stability in solid form.

Melting point (Celsius)
167.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
440.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
492.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
765.15
General information
Molecular weight
309.27g/mol
Molar mass
309.2730g/mol
Density
1.6000g/cm3
Appearence

Sialic acid appears as a white crystalline powder. It is hygroscopic and can absorb moisture from the air. Due to its structure, it is highly soluble in water, forming slightly viscous solutions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility Characteristics

The compound (2R,3R,4R,5R)-2,3,5,6-tetrahydroxy-4-[(2S,3R,4S,5R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydropyran-2-yl]oxy-hexanoic acid, with the chemical formula C11H19NO9, demonstrates interesting solubility properties that are largely dictated by its intricate structure and multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups. These functional groups contribute significantly to its solubility in various solvents.

Solubility Insights

  • Water Solubility: Due to the presence of several hydroxyl groups, this compound is likely to be highly soluble in water. The ability of the -OH groups to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules enhances its aqueous solubility.
  • Organic Solvents: Solubility in organic solvents may be limited. Compounds with multiple polar hydroxyl groups tend to show decreased solubility in non-polar solvents.
  • Temperature Influence: Solubility may increase at elevated temperatures, making it easier to dissolve in water when heated.
  • pH Dependence: The solubility could vary with changes in pH, particularly if the compound can ionize under certain conditions, which may affect its solvation dynamics.

In summary, the solubility of (2R,3R,4R,5R)-2,3,5,6-tetrahydroxy-4-[(2S,3R,4S,5R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydropyran-2-yl]oxy-hexanoic acid is enhanced by its polar functional groups, suggesting favorable interactions with aqueous environments, while potentially posing challenges in non-polar solvents.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (2R,3R,4R,5R)-2,3,5,6-Tetrahydroxy-4-[(2S,3R,4S,5R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydropyran-2-yl]oxy-hexanoic Acid

This complex compound, often referred to in scientific circles for its structural intricacies, presents a fascinating case for study. Here are some interesting points to consider:

  • Sugars Afoot: This compound features multiple hydroxyl groups (-OH), making it rich in functional groups typically associated with sugars, such as D-glucose and D-galactose. It provides an excellent case for examining how sugar-derived acids can play roles in biological systems.
  • Biological Relevance: Compounds with similar structures are often involved in the metabolic pathways of living organisms. They may serve as intermediates in the biosynthesis of important biomolecules.
  • Chirality Matters: The compound is characterized by multiple chiral centers. Chirality is crucial for the interactions of molecules within biological systems, highlighting the importance of stereochemistry in pharmaceutical applications.
  • Potential Applications: Given its sugar-acid hybrid nature, it may exhibit unique properties that can be exploited in food science, materials science, or drug formulation.
  • Environmentally Friendly: Many sugar-based compounds are considered more biodegradable than their petroleum-derived counterparts, making them more attractive for sustainable industrial applications.

In conclusion, while this compound’s name may be daunting, its implications in chemistry, biology, and sustainable technology render it a compound of significant interest for researchers and students alike. Understanding the intricate balance between structure and function in such chemical species can open new doors in various fields.