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Chlorophyll a

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Identification
Molecular formula
C55H72MgN4O5
CAS number
479-61-8
IUPAC name
3-(11-ethyl-4-hydroxy-3-methoxycarbonyl-12,17,21,26-tetramethyl-16-vinyl-7,23,24,25-tetrazahexacyclo[18.2.1.15,8.110,13.115,18.02,6]hexacosa-1,4,6,8(26),9,11,13(25),14,16,18,20(23),21-dodecaen-22-yl)propanoic acid
State
State
At room temperature, chlorophyll a is typically in a solid state. It is stable under normal conditions and usually found in the chloroplasts of plants, where it plays a crucial role in the absorption of light for photosynthesis.
Melting point (Celsius)
96.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
369.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
-89.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
184.00
General information
Molecular weight
893.52g/mol
Molar mass
893.5150g/mol
Density
1.0797g/cm3
Appearence
Chlorophyll a is a green pigment found in the chloroplasts of plants, algae, and cyanobacteria. In its pure form, it appears as a blue-black solid. It is the principal pigment involved in photosynthesis, giving leaves and other plant parts their green color.
Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-(11-ethyl-4-hydroxy-3-methoxycarbonyl-12,17,21,26-tetramethyl-16-vinyl-7,23,24,25-tetrazahexacyclo[18.2.1.15,8.110,13.115,18.02,6]hexacosa-1,4,6,8(26),9,11,13(25),14,16,18,20(23),21-dodecaen-22-yl)propanoic acid

The solubility of this complex compound can be influenced by several factors due to its intricate structure. Understanding its solubility requires considering the following points:

  • Polarity: The presence of hydroxyl (-OH) and carboxylic acid (-COOH) functional groups can enhance solubility in polar solvents such as water.
  • Hydrophobic Character: With multiple methyl groups in its structure, the compound may exhibit hydrophobic characteristics that can reduce solubility in aqueous environments.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The ability to form hydrogen bonds with solvent molecules may significantly affect the solubility in various solvents.
  • Chain Length and Branching: The ethyl group and complex cycloaliphatic rings influence the steric hindrance and, thus, the compound's interactions with potential solvents.

In general, while compounds with hydroxyl and carboxylic groups tend to have good solubility in polar solvents, the complex tetracyclic nature and hydrophobic portions may lead to unpredictable solubility behavior. As such, experimental determination of solubility is often necessary. It is essential to remember that "like dissolves like." Therefore, optimal solvents might include:

  • Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)
  • Acetone
  • Alcohols

To summarize, this compound may have varying degrees of solubility depending on the solvent used, highlighting the importance of context in solubility discussions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3-(11-ethyl-4-hydroxy-3-methoxycarbonyl-12,17,21,26-tetramethyl-16-vinyl-7,23,24,25-tetrazahexacyclo[18.2.1.15,8.110,13.115,18.02,6]hexacosa-1,4,6,8(26),9,11,13(25),14,16,18,20(23),21-dodecaen-22-yl)propanoic acid

This complex compound features a highly intricate molecular structure, which is indicative of sophisticated chemical design in organic synthesis. Its name reveals a wealth of structural information, suggesting multiple functional groups and a significant degree of molecular branching.

Key Features:

  • Tetraza Rings: The presence of four nitrogen atoms in the cyclic structure adds to the compound's unique properties, offering potential for various applications in medicinal chemistry and materials science.
  • Hydroxy and Methoxy Groups: The hydroxy and methoxy substituents enhance solubility in organic solvents and could influence the biological activity of the compound.
  • Vinyl Group: The vinyl group contributes to potential reactivity and provides opportunities for reactions like polymerization and cross-linking.
  • Extended Carbon Chains: The elaborate carbon framework aids in the exploration of structure-activity relationships, which is crucial for research in drug development.

This compound can serve as a fascinating subject for students exploring the intersections of organic chemistry and biochemistry. A notable quote in chemistry is: "The beauty of a compound lies not only in its structure but also in the stories it can tell about reactions and interactions."

Due to its complexity, compounds like this one can lead to interesting discussions about chemical synthesis methods, such as total synthesis. Understanding how to construct such complex molecules can be groundbreaking in both educational and practical contexts.

In conclusion, the sheer complexity of 3-(11-ethyl-4-hydroxy-3-methoxycarbonyl-12,17,21,26-tetramethyl-16-vinyl-7,23,24,25-tetrazahexacyclo[18.2.1.15,8.110,13.115,18.02,6]hexacosa-1,4,6,8(26),9,11,13(25),14,16,18,20(23),21-dodecaen-22-yl)propanoic acid promises a wealth of research potential and intriguing applications in modern chemistry.