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4-Methylpentadecane

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Identification
Molecular formula
C16H34
CAS number
2847-72-5
IUPAC name
4-methylpentadecane
State
State
At room temperature, 4-methylpentadecane is a liquid. It has a low viscosity typical of light hydrocarbons.
Melting point (Celsius)
7.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
280.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
260.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
533.15
General information
Molecular weight
226.44g/mol
Molar mass
226.4410g/mol
Density
0.7800g/cm3
Appearence

4-Methylpentadecane is a colorless to pale yellow liquid. It is not very viscous and has a typical alkane odor, similar to petroleum.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4-methylpentadecane

4-methylpentadecane, with the chemical formula C16H34, is an interesting compound to discuss in terms of its solubility characteristics. As a straight-chain alkane with a branched structure, 4-methylpentadecane exhibits several notable solubility properties:

  • Nonpolar Nature: Being an alkane, 4-methylpentadecane is largely nonpolar. This results in its limited solubility in polar solvents like water.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: However, it is highly soluble in nonpolar organic solvents such as hexane, benzene, and toluene. This is a common trait for long-chain hydrocarbons.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of hydrocarbons can also be influenced by temperature; as temperature increases, the solubility in organic solvents generally improves.
  • Higher Alkanes: As a compound of higher molecular weight, its solubility characteristics may further diverge from smaller, more polarizable hydrocarbons.

In summary, the solubility of 4-methylpentadecane highlights the principle that “like dissolves like.” As such, it will readily mix with nonpolar solvents, but not with polar solvents like water. This underscores the importance of understanding molecular structure in predicting solubility behaviors.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 4-Methylpentadecane

4-Methylpentadecane is a fascinating hydrocarbon that belongs to the category of alkanes, specifically saturated hydrocarbons. As a member of the pentadecane family, it consists of a long hydrocarbon chain which contributes to its unique characteristics. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Branching in Hydrocarbons: The "4-methyl" in its name indicates a branching point in the carbon chain at the fourth position. This structural feature can lead to differences in physical properties when compared to its straight-chain isomers.
  • Isomer Diversity: 4-Methylpentadecane is just one of many isomers of pentadecane, which means it can exist in various structural forms. This diversity can have significant implications for its use in different applications.
  • Natural Occurrence: Compounds like 4-methylpentadecane are often found in natural resources, including some types of crude oil. This can make them subjects of study for energy production and fossil fuel research.
  • Significance in Organic Chemistry: Understanding alkanes like 4-methylpentadecane is crucial for students of organic chemistry, as they serve as foundational models for learning about more complex organic structures.
  • Potential Applications: While not as commonly discussed as other hydrocarbons, derivatives of 4-methylpentadecane could potentially find their way into scientific applications, such as lubricants or specialty fuels, due to their hydrocarbon nature.

In summary, while 4-methylpentadecane may not be the star of the hydrocarbon show, it certainly holds its own in the rich tapestry of organic chemistry and the broader field of chemical sciences. As you delve deeper into the study of hydrocarbons, consider the impact of chain length and branching on chemical behavior and applications.

Synonyms
4-METHYLPENTADECANE
Pentadecane, 4-methyl-
2801-87-8
DTXSID90950702
DTXCID001378848
oddvocxslxtiiu-uhfffaoysa-n
4-Methylpentadecan
4-methyl-pentadecane
CHEBI:88650
Q27160536