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L-carnitine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C7H15NO3S
CAS number
541-15-1
IUPAC name
3-dimethylsulfoniopropyl(trimethyl)ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, L-carnitine is in a solid state, specifically as a crystalline powder. It is stable under normal conditions and should be stored away from moisture to prevent any degradation.

Melting point (Celsius)
197.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
470.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
233.15
Boiling point (Kelvin)
506.30
General information
Molecular weight
161.21g/mol
Molar mass
161.2110g/mol
Density
1.1000g/cm3
Appearence

L-carnitine typically appears as a white crystalline powder. It is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air. Its crystals are usually needle-like.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-Dimethylsulfoniopropyl(trimethyl)ammonium

The solubility of 3-dimethylsulfoniopropyl(trimethyl)ammonium, a quaternary ammonium compound, exhibits interesting characteristics due to its complex structure. This compound is generally known to be:

  • Highly soluble in polar solvents: Its quaternary ammonium nature facilitates strong interactions with water molecules.
  • Less soluble in non-polar solvents: The hydrophilic parts dominate over the hydrophobic sections, limiting solubility in organic solvents.

When discussing solubility, it’s critical to consider factors such as:

  1. Temperature: Higher temperatures often increase solubility for ionic and polar compounds.
  2. pH levels: Changes in pH can affect the ionization state, subsequently influencing solubility.
  3. Presence of other ions: The solubility may also depend on the presence of competing ions in solution.

In summary, the solubility of 3-dimethylsulfoniopropyl(trimethyl)ammonium is primarily favored in aqueous environments, which can be attributed to its ionic nature and the effectiveness of dipole interactions with water molecules. As with many quaternary ammonium compounds, it serves as a useful case study in the realm of solubility.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 3-Dimethylsulfoniopropyl(trimethyl)ammonium

The compound 3-dimethylsulfoniopropyl(trimethyl)ammonium, often referred to by its abbreviated form, is a fascinating quaternary ammonium compound that plays a significant role in various scientific and industrial applications. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Surfactant Properties: This compound exhibits excellent surfactant properties, making it useful in formulations for cleaning agents, personal care products, and cosmetics. Its ability to reduce surface tension enhances the effectiveness of these products.
  • Biological Roles: As an ionic compound, it can act as a biological surfactant, influencing membrane stability and permeability in cellular systems. This has implications in drug delivery and the study of cellular interactions.
  • Quaternary Ammonium Complex: Being a quaternary ammonium salt, it possesses *two positively charged nitrogen atoms,* which can interact with negatively charged species in solutions. This property can aid in stabilizing emulsions and suspensions.
  • Versatile Applications: Beyond cosmetics, this compound finds applications in agriculture as a pesticide adjuvant and in pharmaceuticals due to its ability to assist in drug solubilization.
  • Environmental Considerations: Research is ongoing regarding the environmental impact of quaternary ammonium compounds, with considerations about their biodegradability and effects on aquatic life.

As chemists and researchers delve deeper into the properties and potential innovations of 3-dimethylsulfoniopropyl(trimethyl)ammonium, its multifaceted nature continues to reveal new avenues for exploration, from enhanced agricultural practices to innovative pharmaceutical solutions.

In the world of chemistry, compounds like this serve as reminders of the intricate connections between molecular structure and functional application, emphasized by the quote: “The same substance can behave in many different ways based on its context and composition.”

Synonyms
61672-51-3
1-Propanaminium, 3-(dimethylsulfonio)-N,N,N-trimethyl-
3-dimethylsulfoniopropyl(trimethyl)azanium
3-(Dimethylsulfonio)-N,N,N-trimethylpropanaminium(2+)
A73F49AW3L
DTXSID00274901
[3-(Dimethylsulfonio)propyl]trimethylammonium
Dimethyl(3-(trimethylammonio)propyl)sulfonium
3-(Dimethylsulfonio)-N,N,N-trimethyl-1-propanaminium