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Zinc

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Identification
Molecular formula
Zn
CAS number
7440-66-6
IUPAC name
4-hydroxypentan-2-one;4-hydroxypent-3-en-2-one;zinc
State
State

Zinc is a solid at room temperature, with a brittle consistency at most temperatures other than between 100 and 150 degrees Celsius, where it becomes malleable and ductile.

Melting point (Celsius)
419.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
692.70
Boiling point (Celsius)
907.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 180.00
General information
Molecular weight
65.38g/mol
Molar mass
65.3800g/mol
Density
7.1400g/cm3
Appearence

Zinc is a bluish-silver, lustrous metal. It is typically found in a metallic form in nature, possessing a shiny surface when freshly cut, which tarnishes to a dull gray when exposed to air. Zinc often presents in large solid pieces or sheets with a characteristic metallic luster.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4-hydroxypentan-2-one and 4-hydroxypent-3-en-2-one

The solubility characteristics of 4-hydroxypentan-2-one and 4-hydroxypent-3-en-2-one are intriguing due to their hydroxyl functional group, which plays a significant role in their interaction with solvents.

4-hydroxypentan-2-one

4-hydroxypentan-2-one, also known as a ketone with a hydroxyl (-OH) group, exhibits the following solubility properties:

  • Solvent Polarity: This compound is typically soluble in polar solvents such as water, ethanol, and methanol due to hydrogen bonding.
  • Temperature Effect: Increased temperatures can enhance solubility in certain solvents, making it more readily soluble at higher temperatures.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The hydroxyl group promotes significant hydrogen bonding with water molecules, facilitating solubility.

4-hydroxypent-3-en-2-one

4-hydroxypent-3-en-2-one, another hydroxyl-containing ketone, displays solubility characteristics similar to its counterpart:

  • Polar Solvents: This compound is expected to dissolve well in polar protic solvents due to its hydroxyl group.
  • Reactivity: Its unsaturated carbon-carbon bond may impact solubility. In the presence of appropriate reaction conditions, it can also participate in reactions, affecting its concentration in solution.
  • Lower Solubility: While still soluble in water, its reactivity might result in lower solubility compared to more stable ketones.

Zinc and Its Influence

Zinc compounds themselves often exhibit varying solubility in water:

  • Soluble Compounds: Certain zinc salts, like zinc sulfate and zinc acetate, are readily soluble in water.
  • Insoluble Compounds: Other forms of zinc, such as zinc oxide, have limited solubility under typical conditions.

In summary, the presence of the hydroxyl group in both 4-hydroxypentan-2-one and 4-hydroxypent-3-en-2-one enhances their solubility in polar solvents, while the behavior of zinc towards solubility can vary significantly depending on its chemical form.

Interesting facts

Exploring 4-hydroxypentan-2-one

4-hydroxypentan-2-one, known for its role as an important intermediate in organic synthesis, is a fascinating compound that serves multiple functions in the world of chemistry.

  • Versatile Building Block: This compound is often used as a precursor in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, demonstrating its versatility in chemical manufacturing.
  • Functional Group Influence: The presence of the hydroxyl group (-OH) enhances its reactivity, making it an ideal candidate for further reactions such as dehydration, esterification, and reduction processes.
  • Applications in Research: Its unique structure is frequently utilized in academic research to explore reaction pathways and mechanisms due to its ability to engage in diverse chemical transformations.

With its contributing role to various industrial applications, 4-hydroxypentan-2-one is not only a subject of study but also an essential part of modern chemical synthesis.


Diving into 4-hydroxypent-3-en-2-one

4-hydroxypent-3-en-2-one is a remarkable compound that is noteworthy for its conjugated structure, which enhances its reactivity and utility.

  • Conjugated Systems: The double bond present in this compound allows it to exhibit unique electronic properties, making it valuable in fields such as materials science and medicinal chemistry.
  • Role as a Synthetic Intermediate: Like its counterpart, it acts as a significant intermediate in organic reactions, often leading to the production of more complex natural products and synthetic drugs.
  • Potential Biological Activity: Compounds with this structure often present interesting biological properties, prompting ongoing studies into their potential as therapeutic agents.

This compound's intriguing features make it a focal point for innovative research in synthetic chemistry and related fields.


The Element: Zinc

Zinc stands out among the elements, not only as a crucial metal but also for its diverse applications across multiple industries.

  • Essential Nutrient: It is an essential trace element in human health, playing a vital role in immune function, protein synthesis, and cell division.
  • Wide Industrial Applications: Zinc is commonly used for galvanization to protect iron and steel from corrosion, making it invaluable in construction and manufacturing.
  • Catalytic Role: In organic synthesis, zinc serves as a catalyst or reductant, facilitating a range of important reactions, including the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
  • Biochemical Significance: It plays an essential role in enzymatic reactions as a cofactor, affecting processes such as metabolism and DNA synthesis.

With its multifaceted roles in biological systems and industrial applications, zinc remains a fundamental element, bridging the gap between biology and chemistry.