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3-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C21H14
CAS number
3351-32-4
IUPAC name
3-methylbenzo[a]pyrene
State
State

At room temperature, 3-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene is a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
139.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
412.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
505.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
778.15
General information
Molecular weight
266.34g/mol
Molar mass
266.3370g/mol
Density
1.2000g/cm3
Appearence

3-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon that appears as a pale yellow crystalline powder. This compound, like many of its relatives, is highly hydrophobic, which means it does not dissolve well in water, but is soluble in organic solvents.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-methylbenzo[a]pyrene

3-methylbenzoapyrene is known for its complex solubility behavior, which is essential to understand given its implications in environmental chemistry and toxicology. The solubility of this compound can be influenced by several factors:

  • Polarity: The molecular structure contributes to a relatively low polarity, limiting its solubility in water.
  • Solvent Interaction: It exhibits higher solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and chloroform.
  • Temperature: Increased temperature generally enhances solubility in organic solvents.
  • pH Levels: While 3-methylbenzoapyrene is relatively stable across pH levels, extreme conditions can affect solubility.

As a result, it is often categorized as insoluble or only slightly soluble in aqueous environments, making its environmental mobility limited under normal conditions. Understanding the solubility profile of this compound is crucial for assessing its fate in the environment and its potential harmful effects.

In summary, the solubility characteristics of 3-methylbenzoapyrene are pivotal in various fields:

  • Environmental chemistry
  • Toxicological studies
  • Chemical remediation processes

These attributes highlight the importance of further research into its behavior and interactions in diverse systems.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene

3-Methylbenzoapyrene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) that has gained significant attention in environmental and health research. Here are some fascinating aspects of this compound:

  • Origin and Sources: 3-Methylbenzoapyrene is primarily formed during the incomplete combustion of organic materials. Common sources include:
    • Fossil fuel combustion
    • Tobacco smoke
    • Grilling or barbecuing meats
  • Health Implications: As a member of the PAH family, 3-methylbenzoapyrene is known for its potential carcinogenic properties. Researchers are particularly concerned about:
    • Its ability to induce mutations in DNA.
    • The long-term effects of exposure in urban environments.
  • Environmental Persistence: This compound is recognized for its stability and persistence in the environment. Once released, it can remain in soil and sediments for extended periods, contributing to ecological concerns:
    • It can accumulate in food chains, affecting wildlife.
    • Efforts to remediate contaminated sites often have to consider the presence of such persistent pollutants.
  • Research and Analysis: Analytical chemistry techniques, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), are frequently used to detect and quantify 3-methylbenzoapyrene in environmental samples.

In summary, 3-methylbenzoapyrene serves as a significant topic of discussion within both environmental science and public health. Its origins, effects, and implications continue to drive research efforts aimed at understanding and mitigating the impact of such compounds on human health and ecosystems.

Synonyms
3-Methylbenzo(a)pyrene
3-methylbenzo[a]pyrene
3-Methylbenz(a)pyrene
16757-81-6
8-Methyl-3,4-benzpyrene
BENZO(a)PYRENE, 3-METHYL-
4LM62E88V8
CCRIS 2437
BRN 3289723
SCHEMBL597744
UNII-4LM62E88V8
DTXSID00168311
METHYLBENZO(A)PYRENE, 3-