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Deoxycholic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C24H40O4
CAS number
83-44-3
IUPAC name
4-(3,12-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-7-oxo-1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl)pentanoic acid
State
State
Deoxycholic acid is typically a solid at room temperature, appearing as a crystalline powder.
Melting point (Celsius)
170.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
443.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
404.15
Boiling point (Kelvin)
677.30
General information
Molecular weight
392.57g/mol
Molar mass
392.5740g/mol
Density
1.1600g/cm3
Appearence
Deoxycholic acid appears as a white to almost white crystalline powder.
Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4-(3,12-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-7-oxo-1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl)pentanoic acid

This compound, with the chemical formula C24H40O4, presents interesting solubility characteristics that are key for its applications and interactions in various environments. Understanding its solubility can be simplified into several important points:

  • Polar vs. Non-polar: Due to the presence of multiple hydroxyl (–OH) groups, it is likely more polar, which can increase its solubility in polar solvents like water.

  • Hydrophobic Regions: The large hydrocarbon portions of the molecule may contribute to hydrophobic characteristics, thereby affecting solubility in organic solvents.

  • Hydrogen Bonding: The hydroxyl groups allow for potential hydrogen bonding, which can enhance solubility in polar environments.

In general, compounds with similar structures often exhibit limited solubility in non-polar solvents, while displaying greater solubility in polar solvents. Thus, it can be anticipated that 4-(3,12-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-7-oxo-1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl)pentanoic acid might follow this trend.

As with many organic compounds, the solubility can also be influenced by temperature and pressure, making it essential to consider these factors in practical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 4-(3,12-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-7-oxo-1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl)pentanoic acid

This compound is a fascinating example of how complex organic molecules can be. Known for its intricate structure, 4-(3,12-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-7-oxo-1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl)pentanoic acid is a member of a broader class of steroid-like compounds that exhibit significant biological activity. Here are some key highlights:

  • Structural Complexity: The structure contains multiple functional groups like hydroxyl (-OH) and carbonyl (C=O), making it a potential candidate for various chemical reactions in organic synthesis.
  • Biological Relevance: Compounds similar to this one have been studied for their roles in hormonal activity and their impact on human health, particularly in the context of metabolic processes.
  • Natural Occurrence: This compound, belonging to the steroid family, can be found in certain plants and may play a role in plant hormonal regulation, similar to how some steroids function in animals.
  • Research Applications: It has potential applications in pharmaceuticals, especially in developing drugs for conditions linked to hormonal imbalances.

As a student of chemistry, studying such complex structures not only hones your analytical skills but also invites you to explore the vast world of natural products and their potential applications. Understanding how different moieties within these compounds interact can lead to groundbreaking discoveries in medicinal chemistry and biochemistry. In the words of renowned chemist Linus Pauling, "The best way to have a good idea is to have a lot of ideas." This compound exemplifies the idea of how a single molecular structure can inspire a multitude of research avenues.

Synonyms
3,12-Dihydroxy-7-oxocholan-24-oic acid
7-Cheto-deoxycholic acid
NSC657957
DTXSID40862467
4-(3,12-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-7-oxo-1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl)pentanoic acid
PD166098