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Phytanic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C20H40O2
CAS number
14721-63-8
IUPAC name
3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadecanoic acid
State
State

Solid: Phytanic acid appears as a solid at room temperature, typically forming crystalline structures.

Melting point (Celsius)
60.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
333.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
152.70
Boiling point (Kelvin)
425.85
General information
Molecular weight
312.54g/mol
Molar mass
300.5190g/mol
Density
0.8888g/cm3
Appearence

Phytanic acid is a colorless, crystalline solid with a faint odor. It is often found in biological systems, particularly in tissues high in fat content, such as adipose tissue.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadecanoic acid

3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadecanoic acid, also known as a branched-chain fatty acid, exhibits some intriguing characteristics in terms of solubility. Its solubility is influenced largely by its molecular structure and the presence of functional groups. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Solubility in Water: Generally, branched fatty acids like this compound are poorly soluble in water due to their hydrophobic nature. The long hydrophobic carbon chains do not favor interaction with polar water molecules.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: Conversely, 3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadecanoic acid is more soluble in organic solvents such as hexane, ethanol, and acetone. This makes it suitable for various applications in organic chemistry.
  • Temperature Effects: The solubility can also vary with temperature; as temperature increases, the solubility in organic solvents typically improves which can influence reaction rates and efficiency in solutions.

In summary, while 3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadecanoic acid has limited solubility in water, it demonstrates much better solubility in a range of organic solvents. As a result, understanding its solubility behavior is vital for its applications in fields like biochemistry, pharmaceuticals, and organic synthesis.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 3,7,11,15-Tetramethylhexadecanoic Acid

3,7,11,15-Tetramethylhexadecanoic acid, commonly referred to in scientific circles for its fascinating structure and applications, is a unique fatty acid that belongs to the class of branched-chain fatty acids. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Natural Occurrence: This compound is often found in various plant oils and is a product of certain bacterial metabolism. Its presence in nature reflects the complex biochemical pathways that exist in various organisms.
  • Potential Applications: Researchers are exploring the potential uses of 3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadecanoic acid in the fields of biochemistry and pharmacology. Its unique branched structure may give rise to novel properties that could enhance biological activity.
  • Biological Importance: As a fatty acid, it plays a role in cellular processes. Fatty acids are essential components of lipids, which make up cellular membranes and play vital roles in energy storage and signaling.
  • Synthesis: The synthesis of this compound can be achieved through various chemical pathways, including organic synthesis and microbial fermentation. This versatility opens the door for innovative approaches in producing this fatty acid.
  • Research Frontier: Scientists are continually investigating how branched-chain fatty acids like 3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadecanoic acid interact with biological systems, potentially leading to breakthroughs in understanding metabolic disorders or developing new therapeutic agents.

In summary, 3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadecanoic acid stands out not only for its chemical structure but also for its potential implications in biochemistry and pharmacology. As we delve deeper into understanding compounds like this, we unlock new possibilities for innovation and application in science.

Synonyms
PHYTANIC ACID
14721-66-5
3,7,11,15-Tetramethylhexadecanoic acid
Phytanoic acid
Hexadecanoic acid, 3,7,11,15-tetramethyl-
DTXSID80864526
8OYE5TF5VL
3,7,11,15-Tetramethyl-hexadecansaeure
3,7,11,15-tetramethyl-hexadecanoic acid
CHEBI:16285
NSC-108698
Acid, Phytanic
DTXCID00813031
630-841-4
3,7R,11R,15-tetramethyl-hexadecanoic acid
Phytanate
MFCD00133772
PHYTANIC ACID (3-Methyl-D3)
Phytanoate
3,7,11,15-Tetramethylhexadecanoic Acid; NSC 108698; Phytanic Acid
PHYTANICACID
NSC 108698
UNII-8OYE5TF5VL
SCHEMBL7888
GTPL2813
orb1983479
CHEMBL4853893
SCHEMBL10504800
BDBM119875
HMS3649L09
IFC92040
NSC108698
3,11,15-Tetramethylhexadecanoic acid
3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadecoanoate
3,7,11,15-Tetramethyl-hexadecanoate
3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadecoanoic acid
AS-82571
FP159090
Hexadecanoic acid,7,11,15-tetramethyl-
SY334753
3,7,11,15-tetramethyl hexadecanoic acid
DB-371688
HY-113067
3,7,11,15-tetramethyl-1-hexadecanoic acid
CS-0059480
NS00075527
C01607
D86399
Q421171
SR-01000946672
SR-01000946672-1