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Furfural

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Identification
Molecular formula
C5H4O2
CAS number
98-01-1
IUPAC name
3-(2-furyl)prop-2-enal
State
State

At room temperature, furfural is a liquid.

Melting point (Celsius)
-36.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
236.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
161.70
Boiling point (Kelvin)
434.85
General information
Molecular weight
96.08g/mol
Molar mass
96.0840g/mol
Density
1.1600g/cm3
Appearence

Furfural is a colorless liquid, though older samples can appear more brown. It has a characteristic almond-like odor.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-(2-furyl)prop-2-enal

3-(2-furyl)prop-2-enal, a compound with a furan ring and an aldehyde functional group, presents interesting solubility characteristics. Its solubility is influenced by several key factors:

  • Polarity: Due to the presence of the polar aldehyde group, this compound exhibits moderate polarity, allowing it to dissolve in polar solvents.
  • Solvent Compatibility: It is generally soluble in organic solvents such as:
    • Alcohols
    • Aromatics
    • Chloroform
  • Water Solubility: The solubility in water tends to be lower, primarily due to the hydrophobic nature of the furan ring, which can hinder interaction with water molecules.

As a result, one might say that the solubility of 3-(2-furyl)prop-2-enal in water is "limited," but it finds a better home in various organic solvents.

Quote: "In chemistry, solubility enhances the understanding of compound behavior and interaction." Thus, exploring the solubility of this compound broadens its applications in organic synthesis and reaction mechanisms.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3-(2-furyl)prop-2-enal

3-(2-furyl)prop-2-enal, commonly referred to as a furyl acrylaldehyde, is a fascinating compound that bridges the worlds of organic chemistry and aromatic compounds. Here are some insightful aspects:

  • Structure and Reactivity: The unique structure of 3-(2-furyl)prop-2-enal features a furyl group, which is a five-membered aromatic ring containing oxygen. This makes it an interesting candidate for electrophilic reactions.
  • Applications: It has significant implications in the fields of flavoring and fragrance. The furyl moiety contributes a distinctive aroma that is often desirable in perfumery.
  • Synthetic Intermediates: The compound serves as a useful intermediate in organic synthesis, aiding in the production of various pharmaceuticals and complex organic molecules.
  • Biological Activity: Research has indicated potential biological activities that may be beneficial, making it a compound of interest in medicinal chemistry.
  • Historical Significance: Compounds like 3-(2-furyl)prop-2-enal have been studied for many years, providing invaluable insights into the chemical behaviors of heterocyclic compounds.

Overall, 3-(2-furyl)prop-2-enal stands out for its versatility in both organic synthesis and application in the aroma industry, showcasing the beauty of chemistry in merging structure with practical use.

Synonyms
3-(2-Furanyl)-2-propenal
Furfuryliden-acetaldehyd
3-(2-furyl)-acrolein
beta-(2-FURYL)ACROLEIN
DTXSID2025349
AKOS025243212
SB60942
NCI60_001734
DB-049425