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Lecithin

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Identification
Molecular formula
C10H20NO7P
CAS number
8002-43-5
IUPAC name
3-[(Z)-2-hydroxybut-2-enoyl]oxypropyl-trimethyl-ammonium
State
State

Lecithin is generally found in a liquid or semi-solid state at room temperature. It is viscous and often sticky, especially when isolated and purified from its natural sources.

Melting point (Celsius)
-20.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
253.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
200.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
473.15
General information
Molecular weight
425.64g/mol
Molar mass
425.6400g/mol
Density
1.0300g/cm3
Appearence

Lecithin is a yellow-brown, fatty substance that occurs in animal and plant tissues. It is a mixture of phospholipids including phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylinositol.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-[(Z)-2-hydroxybut-2-enoyl]oxypropyl-trimethyl-ammonium

The solubility of 3-[(Z)-2-hydroxybut-2-enoyl]oxypropyl-trimethyl-ammonium can be quite intriguing due to its unique chemical structure. Here are some important points to consider:

  • Nature of the Compound: This compound contains a quaternary ammonium group which typically enhances solubility in polar solvents.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The presence of hydroxyl groups may contribute to hydrogen bonding, potentially increasing solubility in water.
  • Alkyl Chain Influence: The trimethyl groups could affect the hydrophobic interactions, influencing overall solubility in organic solvents.
  • Solvent Compatibility: It is likely to be soluble in polar solvents such as ethanol and methanol while having limited solubility in nonpolar solvents like hexane.

In summary, the solubility of this compound is complex and will significantly depend on the solvent type. Understanding these interactions is essential for applications in various fields including pharmaceuticals and materials science.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3-[(Z)-2-hydroxybut-2-enoyl]oxypropyl-trimethyl-ammonium

This fascinating compound represents a class of derivatives that combines various functional groups, showcasing the wonders of organic chemistry and its applications in numerous fields. Here are some intriguing insights:

  • Biological Relevance: Compounds like this one are often studied for their potential roles in biochemistry, particularly in the formulation of drugs that target specific pathways or cells.
  • Surface Activity: The ammonium group in this compound grants it amphiphilic properties, making it an effective surfactant. This means it can reduce surface tension in liquids, which is useful in various industrial applications, including detergents and emulsifiers.
  • Esters as Functional Groups: The presence of the ester linkage in the molecule can contribute to its reactivity and solubility characteristics, making it valuable in synthetic reactions and material science.
  • Synthetic Versatility: Compounds structured like this can be synthesized through multiple pathways, allowing chemists to tailor them for specific needs, such as drug delivery systems or agricultural applications.
  • Recent Research: The compound is of interest in ongoing research focusing on nanotechnology, where its unique properties are being explored for use in targeted therapies and advanced material formulations.

In summary, 3-[(Z)-2-hydroxybut-2-enoyl]oxypropyl-trimethyl-ammonium encapsulates the intricate interplay between structure and function in organic compounds. As scientists continue to unravel the complexities of these kinds of molecules, we anticipate exciting developments that could lead to innovations in pharmaceuticals and materials science.