Skip to main content

3-Phenylisothiourea

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C7H8N2S
CAS number
103-85-5
IUPAC name
3-phenylisothiourea
State
State

At room temperature, 3-Phenylisothiourea is in a solid state. It remains stable under standard conditions of temperature and pressure.

Melting point (Celsius)
80.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
353.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
244.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
517.00
General information
Molecular weight
166.22g/mol
Molar mass
166.2400g/mol
Density
1.1680g/cm3
Appearence

3-Phenylisothiourea typically appears as a white crystalline powder. The crystals are well-formed and exhibit a characteristic needle-like structure.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-Phenylisothiourea

3-Phenylisothiourea, with the chemical formula C7H8N2 S, exhibits some interesting solubility characteristics that are important to consider in various chemical applications. Primarily:

  • Solvent Dependency: The solubility of 3-phenylisothiourea is highly reliant on the polarity of the solvent. It is generally more soluble in polar solvents.
  • Alcohol Solubility: This compound tends to dissolve well in alcohols, such as ethanol and methanol, making these solvents suitable for experimental procedures involving this compound.
  • Water Solubility: Although 3-phenylisothiourea has limited solubility in water, it can still interact to a certain extent due to the presence of polar functional groups.

In practical terms, understanding the solubility of 3-phenylisothiourea allows researchers to make informed choices about solvent selection, enhancing the effectiveness of syntheses and analyses. As with many organic compounds, “the right solvent can make all the difference.”

For effective use in chemistry, always consider temperature and pH variations, as they can significantly impact solubility profiles and overall reactivity of the compound.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 3-Phenylisothiourea

3-Phenylisothiourea (often abbreviated as PTU) is a fascinating compound with several notable characteristics and applications in scientific research and medicine. Here are some key points that highlight its significance:

  • Biochemical Importance: 3-Phenylisothiourea is primarily known for its role as a potent inhibitor of the enzyme tyrosinase, which is crucial in the biosynthesis of melanin. This inhibition makes it an important compound in studies of pigmentation and skin-related conditions.
  • Research Applications: It has been widely utilized in experimental studies to explore the mechanisms of melanogenesis — the process by which melanin is produced. Researchers use PTU to investigate conditions such as vitiligo and other pigment disorders.
  • Agricultural Relevance: Beyond its biological significance, 3-phenylisothiourea has found a place in agricultural biochemistry. It is employed in studies related to plant growth regulation and pest management, showcasing its versatility beyond human health.
  • Mechanistic Insights: The effects of PTU on the melanin production pathway are well-studied, providing insights into the complex interactions at play in melanin formation, which can lead to breakthroughs in dermatological treatments.
  • Safety Precautions: As with many chemical compounds, working with 3-phenylisothiourea requires strict safety measures. It should be handled with care due to its bioactive nature, ensuring proper lab protocols are observed.

In summary, 3-phenylisothiourea is much more than just a chemical entity; it is a valuable tool in both biochemical research and agricultural science. As scientists continue to explore its properties and applications, 3-phenylisothiourea is set to further enhance our understanding of melanin synthesis and its related disorders.