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4-Methylheptane

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Identification
Molecular formula
C8H18
CAS number
589-53-7
IUPAC name
4-methylheptane
State
State

At room temperature, 4-Methylheptane is a liquid.

Melting point (Celsius)
-119.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
154.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
118.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
391.00
General information
Molecular weight
114.23g/mol
Molar mass
114.2280g/mol
Density
0.7170g/cm3
Appearence

4-Methylheptane is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic hydrocarbon smell. It is often found as part of various mixtures used industrially.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4-Methylheptane

4-methylheptane, with the molecular formula C8H18, is a branched alkane that exhibits interesting solubility characteristics. Given its hydrocarbon nature, it is primarily insoluble in water, which is a common trait among many nonpolar organic compounds. This lack of solubility in polar solvents can be attributed to the following reasons:

  • Non-polarity: With its long hydrocarbon chain, 4-methylheptane does not interact favorably with water molecules.
  • Hydrophobic effect: The molecule's hydrophobic nature leads to minimal interaction with polar solvents.
  • Density consideration: 4-methylheptane is also less dense than water, further contributing to its tendency to float rather than dissolve.

However, 4-methylheptane is soluble in organic solvents such as hexane, ethanol, and other nonpolar or weakly polar substances. This characteristic aligns with the principle of "like dissolves like," where solvents are more effective at dissolving solutes that have similar polarity. Some key points regarding its solubility in organic compounds include:

  • High solubility in alkanes: As a hydrocarbon, it mixes well with other hydrocarbons.
  • Partial solubility in alcohols: There may be limited solubility in certain alcohols due to moderate polarity.

In conclusion, when considering the solubility of 4-methylheptane, it is essential to remember its nonpolar nature and the characteristics of potential solvents. As such, it serves as a representative example of how molecular structure and polarity play crucial roles in solubility behavior.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 4-Methylheptane

4-Methylheptane is an intriguing branched-chain alkane that falls under the category of hydrocarbons. This fascinating compound offers several noteworthy aspects:

  • Structure and Isomerism: 4-Methylheptane is a structural isomer of heptane, which means it has the same molecular formula but a different arrangement of atoms. This isomerism can lead to varied physical and chemical properties, showcasing the diversity of simple hydrocarbons.
  • Application in Fuels: Due to its favorable combustion properties, 4-methylheptane is notable in the development of high-performance fuels. It serves as a reference compound for octane ratings, helping to measure the anti-knock properties of gasoline.
  • Synthesis: This alkane can be synthesized through several methods, including the alkylation of linear alkanes, such as heptane. This versatility in its production underscores the importance of understanding reaction mechanisms in synthetic organic chemistry.
  • Taste and Odor: Interestingly, although hydrocarbons generally lack distinctive odors, 4-methylheptane can exhibit a mild characteristic odor due to its branched structure.
  • Role in Organic Chemistry: Beyond its use as a fuel additive, 4-methylheptane serves as a useful model compound in organic chemistry, particularly in studies involving *hydrocarbon reactivity and stability*.

In conclusion, 4-methylheptane is not just a simple alkane; it represents the complexity and variety within organic compounds. Its applications in fuels and the study of its isomerism make it an essential compound for both scientific and practical applications. As you explore hydrocarbons further, consider how even the simplest structures carry significant implications for chemistry and industry.

Synonyms
4-METHYLHEPTANE
589-53-7
Heptane, 4-methyl-
4-methyl-heptane
N6BX267ALB
EINECS 209-650-1
NSC 73953
NSC-73953
(n-C3H7)2CHCH3
DTXSID6060428
CHBAWFGIXDBEBT-UHFFFAOYSA-
CHEBI:67193
Heptane, 4methyl
Heptane, 4-methyl-(8CI)
DTXCID1042491
Heptane, 4-methyl-(8CI)(9CI)
209-650-1
chbawfgixdbebt-uhfffaoysa-n
inchi=1/c8h18/c1-4-6-8(3)7-5-2/h8h,4-7h2,1-3h3
un1262
Heptane, 4-methyl-; 4-Methylheptane; NSC 73953
MFCD00009409
4-Methylheptane, 99%
UNII-N6BX267ALB
NSC73953
LMFA11000608
AKOS015841798
LS-13529
DB-053294
M0520
NS00022437
D91347
Q2816677