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4-Hydroxydecanoic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C10H20O3
CAS number
609-12-1
IUPAC name
4-hydroxydecanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, 4-hydroxydecanoic acid is typically a solid. It is a stable compound under normal conditions but should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent any potential decomposition or degradation.

Melting point (Celsius)
51.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
324.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
268.20
Boiling point (Kelvin)
541.35
General information
Molecular weight
188.27g/mol
Molar mass
188.2660g/mol
Density
0.9910g/cm3
Appearence

4-Hydroxydecanoic acid is an organic compound that appears as a white to off-white crystalline solid. It may also appear granular or in powdered form. The compound can have a slight odor characteristic of fatty acids.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4-hydroxydecanoic acid

4-hydroxydecanoic acid, with the chemical formula C10H20O3, exhibits interesting solubility properties that can vary depending on several factors. This compound's solubility behavior is crucial for its applications in various fields, particularly in pharmaceuticals and polymer science.

Generally, 4-hydroxydecanoic acid is considered to be:

  • Moderately soluble in water: Its hydroxyl functional group contributes to its ability to interact with water molecules, although steric hindrance from the decanoic acid chain may limit this definition.
  • Soluble in organic solvents: It shows good solubility in non-polar and polar organic solvents, such as ethanol and dichloromethane, making it versatile for various synthesis processes.

Factors affecting the solubility of 4-hydroxydecanoic acid include:

  1. Temperature: As with many organic compounds, solubility typically increases with rising temperature.
  2. pH levels: The ionization of the hydroxyl group can alter solubility, especially in highly acidic or basic environments.
  3. Chain length and branching: The length of the hydrocarbon chain may affect the balance between hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions.

In conclusion, understanding the solubility characteristics of 4-hydroxydecanoic acid is essential for optimizing its use in various applications. As with many compounds, the interplay of molecular structure and environmental conditions plays a significant role in its solubility behavior, making it a compound of interest for further studies.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 4-Hydroxydecanoic Acid

4-Hydroxydecanoic acid is an intriguing compound with a variety of applications in both biochemical research and industrial processes. It is essentially a fatty acid that features a hydroxyl group at the 4-position on its carbon chain, setting it apart from other fatty acids.

Biological Significance

This compound plays a vital role in metabolic processes and is a significant component of certain lipids that are involved in energy storage and cellular metabolism. Some key points include:

  • Fatty Acid Metabolism: It is involved in the synthesis and breakdown of fatty acids, which are crucial for energy production in cells.
  • Antimicrobial Properties: Research has indicated that 4-hydroxydecanoic acid exhibits antimicrobial activity, making it a compound of interest in developing new antimicrobial agents.
  • Potential Therapeutic Applications: Its derivatives may have potential in treating metabolic disorders or conditions related to lipid metabolism.

Industrial Uses

Beyond its biological functions, 4-hydroxydecanoic acid also has applications in various industries:

  • Surfactants: Its chemical structure allows it to function well in the formulation of surfactants used in detergents and personal care products.
  • Polymer Chemistry: The compound can serve as a monomer in the production of polyesters and polyamides, leading to more sustainable materials.

Research and Development

In the realm of scientific research, 4-hydroxydecanoic acid is a exciting compound that encourages further exploration:

  • It serves as a model for studying lipid interactions with proteins, which is vital in understanding cell signaling and membrane dynamics.
  • Researchers are investigating its role in regulating gene expression and its impact on metabolic pathways.

In conclusion, 4-hydroxydecanoic acid is more than just a fatty acid; it is a compound with potential implications that span from health sciences to industrial applications. Its unique properties warrant continued exploration, offering exciting possibilities for future developments in chemistry and biochemistry.

Synonyms
4-HYDROXYDECANOIC ACID
17369-51-6
DTXSID10938421
DTXCID901366955
4-hydroxycapric acid
Decanoic acid, 4-hydroxy-
4-hydroxy capric acid
4-HYDROXYDECANOICACID
SCHEMBL317386
SCHEMBL3343272
CHEBI:165409
LMFA01050031
AKOS010914269
CS-0297491
EN300-81498
G81050