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Chlorophyll a

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Identification
Molecular formula
C55H72MgN4O5
CAS number
1406-65-1
IUPAC name
3-[1-acetyl-8,13,17-tris(2-carboxyethyl)-2,7,12,18-tetrakis(carboxymethyl)-2,7,11,17-tetramethyl-3,10,15,21-tetrahydrocorrin-3-yl]propanoic acid
State
State
At room temperature, chlorophyll a typically exists in a solid state. It is hydrophobic and therefore is located in the lipid part of chloroplast membranes.
Melting point (Celsius)
180.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
453.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
240.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
513.15
General information
Molecular weight
893.51g/mol
Molar mass
893.5080g/mol
Density
1.2730g/cm3
Appearence

Chlorophyll a is generally found as a waxy blue-black microcrystalline solid. It exhibits a deep green color in solution, a characteristic caused by its extensive system of conjugated double bonds which absorb certain wavelengths of light, giving it its distinctive green color. The pigment is integral to the process of photosynthesis in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-[1-acetyl-8,13,17-tris(2-carboxyethyl)-2,7,12,18-tetrakis(carboxymethyl)-2,7,11,17-tetramethyl-3,10,15,21-tetrahydrocorrin-3-yl]propanoic acid

The compound with the formula C55H72MgN4O5 exhibits complex solubility characteristics influenced by its intricate molecular structure and functional groups. Understanding the solubility behavior of this compound is essential for predicting its applications and interactions in various environments.

Factors Affecting Solubility

  • Molecular Structure: The numerous carboxylic acid groups (–COOH) in the structure generally enhance solubility in polar solvents, particularly water, due to hydrogen bonding capabilities.
  • Presence of Magnesium: The presence of magnesium (Mg) can also play a role in solubility, as metal ions may facilitate solvation depending on their coordination with solvent molecules.
  • Polarity: The overall polarity of the compound affects its affinity for polar or non-polar solvents; it likely favors aqueous solutions due to its extensive carboxymethyl chains.
  • Temperature: Like many organic compounds, an increase in temperature might improve solubility by providing kinetic energy to overcome intermolecular forces.

In summary, the solubility of this complex compound is substantially governed by its functional groups and structure. For practical applications, it is crucial to experiment with various solvents, considering the potential for:

  1. Aqueous Solutions: Expectedly soluble due to the presence of multiple carboxylic acid groups.
  2. Organic Solvents: May show variable solubility dependent on the hydrophobic regions of the molecule.

Overall, the nuanced solubility profile of this compound illustrates the significance of functional groups and their interactions with solvents, making it a fascinating subject for further study.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3-[1-acetyl-8,13,17-tris(2-carboxyethyl)-2,7,12,18-tetrakis(carboxymethyl)-2,7,11,17-tetramethyl-3,10,15,21-tetrahydrocorrin-3-yl]propanoic acid

This fascinating compound is notable for its intricate structure and significant role in biochemistry. Here are some engaging aspects that highlight its importance:

  • Complex Architecture: The compound features a highly complex corrin structure, which is a characteristic of several important biological molecules, including vitamin B12. The presence of multiple carboxyethyl and carboxymethyl groups enhances its chemical reactivity and solubility in various environments.
  • Metal Coordination: This compound contains magnesium (Mg) as a central metal ion, which plays a crucial role in the stabilization of its structure and impacts its biological functions, potentially serving as an important cofactor in enzymatic reactions.
  • Biological Relevance: Given its corrin framework, this compound may exhibit functionalities akin to those of natural corrinoids, suggesting potential applications in enzyme catalysis and the study of metabolic pathways, particularly in relation to vitamin B12.
  • Research Potential: The unique combination of substituents and coordination chemistry opens avenues for research in drug design and materials science. Its ability to chelate metal ions could be exploited for targeted drug delivery systems.
  • Functional Groups: With numerous carboxylic acid groups in its structure, the compound exhibits strong acidity, which could be instrumental in complexation reactions and biological transport mechanisms in biochemical studies.

A scientist once stated, "The beauty of chemistry lies in its complexity and the vast array of interactions that compounds can exhibit." This compound truly exemplifies that sentiment through its remarkable structural diversity and potential applications.

In summary, the 3-[1-acetyl-8,13,17-tris(2-carboxyethyl)-2,7,12,18-tetrakis(carboxymethyl)-2,7,11,17-tetramethyl-3,10,15,21-tetrahydrocorrin-3-yl]propanoic acid is not just a chemical compound; it is a gateway to exploring the fascinating world of biochemical interactions and therapeutic avenues.