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Methyl isopropenyl ketone

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H10O
CAS number
141-79-7
IUPAC name
4-methylpent-4-en-2-one
State
State

Liquid at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
-80.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
192.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
112.30
Boiling point (Kelvin)
385.45
General information
Molecular weight
98.14g/mol
Molar mass
98.1430g/mol
Density
0.8362g/cm3
Appearence

Methyl isopropenyl ketone is a colorless to pale yellow liquid.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4-methylpent-4-en-2-one

4-methylpent-4-en-2-one, also known as mesityl oxide, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics. Its solubility can be influenced by several factors, including:

  • Polarity: As an organic compound, 4-methylpent-4-en-2-one possesses polar characteristics that tend to promote solubility in polar solvents.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: Although it is not a heavily polar compound, the functional groups present allow for some interaction with protic solvents.
  • Solvent Effects: It is generally soluble in common organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and ether.

Notably, its solubility in water is quite limited due to its hydrophobic nature, thus, highlighting the rule of thumb in chemistry: "like dissolves like."

In summary, while 4-methylpent-4-en-2-one is soluble in various organic solvents, its solubility in polar solvents like water is significantly low, a typical behavior for non-polar organic compounds.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 4-methylpent-4-en-2-one

4-methylpent-4-en-2-one, also known as mesityl oxide, is an intriguing compound with several noteworthy characteristics:

  • Structure and Classification: This compound belongs to the class of ketones and is recognized for its unique double bond configuration. It features an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl group which plays a significant role in its chemical properties.
  • Natural Occurrence: 4-methylpent-4-en-2-one can be found naturally in certain plant oils and resins, showcasing nature's ability to create complex organic molecules.
  • Synthetic Applications: It serves as an important building block in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of various pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. The compound's structure allows for a range of chemical reactions that are valuable in synthetic pathways.
  • Reactivity: This compound undergoes typical reactions of α,β-unsaturated carbonyls, including Michael additions and nucleophilic additions, making it a versatile intermediate in synthetic chemistry.
  • Historical Significance: The development of various synthetic routes to 4-methylpent-4-en-2-one has played a pivotal role in understanding alkene chemistry. Researchers have studied this compound to explore enone reactivity and mechanisms.
  • Industrial Use: In industry, mesityl oxide is utilized as a solvent and an intermediate in the manufacture of paints, coatings, and adhesives, demonstrating its practicality beyond just being a synthetic compound.

As a fascinating compound, 4-methylpent-4-en-2-one exemplifies the intersection of nature and synthetic chemistry, providing a wealth of opportunities for research and application in various fields.

Synonyms
4-Penten-2-one, 4-methyl-
4-methylpent-4-en-2-one
4-Methyl-4-penten-2-one
ISOMESITYL OXIDE
Isopropenyl acetone
2-Methylene-4-pentanal
P549RW6459
DTXSID4073966
UNII-P549RW6459
CH3C(O)CH2C(CH3)=CH2
AI3-24338
DTXCID7039331
vadudtkcgjkndy-uhfffaoysa-n
3744-02-3
Isopropenylacetone
3-Acetylisobutene
4-methyl-pent-4-en-2-one
CHEBI:173332
MFCD00071647
AKOS017516565
DB-325085
NS00125885
E77682
EN300-1856366
Q27286189