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4-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C21H14
CAS number
58917-16-3
IUPAC name
4-methylbenzo[a]pyrene
State
State

At room temperature, 4-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene is a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
158.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
431.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
535.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
808.15
General information
Molecular weight
266.34g/mol
Molar mass
266.3370g/mol
Density
1.2866g/cm3
Appearence

4-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene appears as pale yellow or light brown crystals. It is typically handled in laboratories that specialize in organic chemistry or toxicology.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4-methylbenzo[a]pyrene

The solubility of 4-methylbenzo[a]pyrene is a notable aspect of its chemical properties due to its structure and hydrophobic characteristics. As a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), this compound generally exhibits low solubility in water, which is characteristic of many compounds in its class. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Hydrophobic Nature: The presence of multiple fused aromatic rings contributes to its hydrophobic properties, reducing its tendency to dissolve in polar solvents like water.
  • Solvent Compatibility: 4-methylbenzo[a]pyrene shows significantly higher solubility in non-polar organic solvents such as benzene, toluene, and chloroform.
  • Concentration Effects: While naturally insoluble in water, its solubility may increase in organic phases due to concentration effects and interactions with other solutes.
  • Environmental Impact: Its low solubility in water has implications for environmental behavior, affecting its mobility and bioaccumulation potential in aquatic systems.

In summary, the limited solubility of 4-methylbenzo[a]pyrene in water emphasizes its classification as a hydrophobic pollutant, highlighting the need for careful consideration in environmental and health assessments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 4-methylbenzo[a]pyrene

4-methylbenzoapyrene is a fascinating chemical compound that fits within the class of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Carcinogenic Properties: Research has indicated that 4-methylbenzoapyrene has significant carcinogenic potential, primarily through its role as a metabolite of benzoapyrene. Its mutagenic properties contribute to DNA damage, making it a focus of environmental and health studies.
  • Environmental Presence: You can typically find this compound in environments contaminated by fossil fuel combustion, industrial emissions, and even in charred food. This highlights its relevance in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
  • Detection Techniques: Scientists often employ advanced techniques like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to detect and quantify this compound in various samples, including air, water, and soil.
  • Regulatory Attention: Given its hazardous nature, 4-methylbenzoapyrene is monitored by various environmental protection agencies. It is included on lists of priority pollutants due to its implications for human health and environmental safety.
  • Research Applications: Beyond its implications in toxicity, this compound serves as a model for studying the biochemical mechanisms of PAH metabolism. Understanding how organisms process such compounds can lead to innovative detoxification strategies.

In summary, 4-methylbenzoapyrene is more than just a chemical; it represents a critical point of intersection between chemistry and environmental science. As we delve deeper into its properties and effects, we uncover essential information that shapes regulations and health guidelines worldwide.

Synonyms
4-methylbenzo[a]pyrene
16757-83-8
4-METHYLBENZO(A)PYRENE
Benzo(a)pyrene, 4-methyl-
CCRIS 2438
BRN 3283286
4-Methylbenzo(a)pyren
4-methyl-benzo[a]pyrene
SCHEMBL598810
DTXSID20168313
AKOS015905880