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Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

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Identification
Molecular formula
C29H50O2
CAS number
10191-41-0
IUPAC name
4-[(1S,2R)-1-ethyl-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methyl-phenyl)butyl]-2-methyl-phenol
State
State

At room temperature, tocopherol is in a liquid state if it is pure. When it is not of high purity, it might also be found in a solid crystalline form.

Melting point (Celsius)
2.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
275.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
433.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
706.15
General information
Molecular weight
430.72g/mol
Molar mass
430.7190g/mol
Density
0.9522g/cm3
Appearence

Tocopherol typically appears as a pale yellow, viscous liquid or as yellowish-brown crystals. It is generally soluble in organic solvents like alcohol, fats, and oils, and it has an aromatic odor.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4-[(1S,2R)-1-ethyl-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methyl-phenyl)butyl]-2-methyl-phenol

The solubility characteristics of the compound 4-[(1S,2R)-1-ethyl-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methyl-phenyl)butyl]-2-methyl-phenol (C29H50O2) present intriguing aspects worthy of examination. Solubility is a crucial property that can dictate the compound's behavior in various environments, including biological systems and industrial applications.

Solubility Characteristics

  • Polar vs. Nonpolar Solubility: Due to its large organic structure and presence of a hydroxyl group, this compound exhibits limited solubility in water, a characteristic common among larger, non-ionic organic molecules.
  • Organic Solvents: It is more likely to dissolve in nonpolar to moderately polar organic solvents, including hexane, dichloromethane, and possibly alcohols, given its ester-like behavior.
  • Temperature Influence: Generally, solubility can vary significantly with temperature; the compound might show increased solubility in warm solvents.

Understanding the solubility of this compound is vital for its practical applications. As a key consideration, always remember:

"The solubility of a compound can often impact its efficacy and behavior in a given medium."

In summary, 4-[(1S,2R)-1-ethyl-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methyl-phenyl)butyl]-2-methyl-phenol is expected to have limited water solubility while displaying better compatibility with certain organic solvents, underlining the essential nature of solubility in the study of chemical compounds.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 4-[(1S,2R)-1-ethyl-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methyl-phenyl)butyl]-2-methyl-phenol

4-[(1S,2R)-1-ethyl-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methyl-phenyl)butyl]-2-methyl-phenol, often abbreviated as EHP, is a fascinating compound with significant implications in various fields, especially in biochemistry and pharmaceuticals. Here are some engaging insights:

  • Chiral Nature: The compound exhibits chirality due to the presence of *chiral centers*, specifically at the ethyl substituent. This means that EHP can exist in multiple enantiomeric forms, making it essential for studies in stereochemistry and its effects on biological activity.
  • Biological Activities: Many derivatives of phenolic compounds have been investigated for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. EHP could potentially exhibit similar characteristics, making it a candidate for therapeutic applications.
  • Structure-Activity Relationships: The intricate structure of EHP allows chemists to explore the relationship between its molecular structure and its biological effects. This can drive the development of more effective drugs with fewer side effects.
  • Environmental Relevance: Compounds like EHP may also be important in the context of environmental chemistry. Their presence in certain ecosystems can affect biological interactions, prompting research into their environmental impact.
  • Potential Applications: Research into EHP could lead to useful applications in materials science and industrial chemistry, particularly in the design of new polymers, coatings, or pharmaceuticals.

In summary, the exploration of 4-[(1S,2R)-1-ethyl-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methyl-phenyl)butyl]-2-methyl-phenol opens up numerous avenues for scientific inquiry and application. Its unique structural properties and potential biological significance make it a compelling subject for both researchers and students alike.

Synonyms
BRN 2336462
meso-3,4-Bis(4-hydroxy-3-methylphenyl)hexane
o-CRESOL, 4,4'-(1,2-DIETHYLETHYLENE)DI-
10465-10-8
3-06-00-05541 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)