Skip to main content

3-Chlorobutan-2-ol

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C4H9ClO
CAS number
54004-10-3
IUPAC name
3-chlorobutan-2-ol
State
State

3-Chlorobutan-2-ol is typically found in a liquid state at room temperature due to its relatively low melting point, which allows it to remain liquid under standard conditions.

Melting point (Celsius)
-55.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
218.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
144.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
417.15
General information
Molecular weight
106.57g/mol
Molar mass
106.5600g/mol
Density
1.0330g/cm3
Appearence

3-Chlorobutan-2-ol is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid. Its consistency is typical of a low viscosity liquid, and it may have a mild alcoholic or chloroform-like odor.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-chlorobutan-2-ol

3-chlorobutan-2-ol, possessing a moderate polarity due to its hydroxy (-OH) and chloro (-Cl) functional groups, showcases notable solubility characteristics:

  • Polar Solvents: This compound is soluble in polar solvents such as water and ethanol. This behavior is primarily attributed to strong hydrogen bonding interactions with water molecules.
  • Nonpolar Solvents: Conversely, 3-chlorobutan-2-ol is insoluble in nonpolar solvents, like hexane, due to the lack of suitable interactions.
  • Temperature Influence: Increased temperature can enhance its solubility in aqueous solutions, making the dissolution process more favorable.

As a general rule, compounds that are capable of hydrogen bonding tend to be more soluble in water. In the case of 3-chlorobutan-2-ol, its ability to participate in such interactions gives it a significant degree of solubility in polar environments.
In summary, the solubility of 3-chlorobutan-2-ol can be succinctly characterized as:

  1. Soluble in polar solvents
  2. Insoluble in nonpolar solvents
  3. Temperature-dependent solubility
Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3-Chlorobutan-2-ol

3-Chlorobutan-2-ol is a fascinating organic compound that provides valuable insights into the realms of organic synthesis and pharmaceuticals. Here are some noteworthy aspects of this compound:

  • Functional Groups: This compound is characterized by the presence of both a chlorine atom and a hydroxyl group, classifying it as a chlorohydrin. These functional groups are crucial in influencing the compound's reactivity and biological activity.
  • Synthesis: 3-Chlorobutan-2-ol can be synthesized through several methods, including the halogenation of alcohols. This process often involves the substitution of hydrogen with chlorine, highlighting the importance of understanding nucleophilic substitution reactions.
  • Chiral Center: The presence of a chiral center in this compound makes it optically active. This characteristic allows for the existence of enantiomers, which is important in the field of stereochemistry and pharmaceutical development.
  • Applications: The compound is notably used as a building block in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its versatility makes it an essential intermediate in organic synthesis.

As chemists continue to explore the properties and reactions of 3-chlorobutan-2-ol, its significance in research and industry remains profound. “Understanding the complexity of simple compounds is fundamental to unraveling the intricacies of chemical science.”

This compound not only enriches the study of organic chemistry but also serves as a gateway to more complex chemical structures.

Synonyms
3-chlorobutan-2-ol
3-CHLORO-2-BUTANOL
563-84-8
2-Butanol, 3-chloro-
NSC-239709
NSC 239709
83PP1OU7BQ
DTXSID2021527
DTXCID501527
828-164-6
(+-)-3-chloro-2-butanol
UNII-83PP1OU7BQ
NSC239709
3-chloro-butan-2-ol
3-Chloro-2-butanol #
.beta.-Butylene chlorohydrin
SCHEMBL3912981
(+/-)-3-CHLORO-2-BUTANOL
NS00126637
EN300-199266
G78005