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4-Oxopent-2-enal

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Identification
Molecular formula
C5H6O2
CAS number
3926-62-3
IUPAC name
4-oxopent-2-enal
State
State

At room temperature, 4-oxopent-2-enal is in a liquid state. It is volatile and can evaporate to form vapors, which possess a strong odor due to its aldehyde content.

Melting point (Celsius)
-49.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
223.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
179.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
452.15
General information
Molecular weight
98.10g/mol
Molar mass
98.1010g/mol
Density
0.9537g/cm3
Appearence

4-Oxopent-2-enal is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pungent odor. It is an unsaturated aldehyde and ketone, and its appearance can be attributed to its unique structure featuring both carbonyl groups.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4-oxopent-2-enal

4-oxopent-2-enal, a compound characterized by its unique carbonyl functionality, exhibits particular solubility characteristics that are fascinating to explore. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Solvent Compatibility: 4-oxopent-2-enal is typically soluble in polar organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone due to its polar carbonyl group.
  • Water Solubility: The compound may have limited solubility in water, as the hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain can hinder full interaction with water molecules.
  • Temperature Effects: Increased temperature may enhance solubility in various solvents, promoting interactions between solute and solvent.

As with many carbonyl compounds, the presence of the carbonyl group influences how well it can dissolve in various environments. To sum up, while 4-oxopent-2-enal is mainly soluble in polar solvents, its solubility in water remains a challenge due to structural characteristics. This balance of properties is often pivotal in chemical synthesis and applications, making solubility an important consideration.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 4-Oxopent-2-enal

4-Oxopent-2-enal, sometimes known as 5-oxovaleric aldehyde, is a fascinating compound with notable significance in various fields of chemistry and biochemistry. Here are some intriguing aspects to consider:

  • Structural Features: This compound features both a ketone and an aldehyde functional group, making it quite versatile in reactions. The carbonyl groups enable it to participate in various organic transformations.
  • Synthesis: 4-Oxopent-2-enal can be synthesized through various methods, including the oxidation of specific alcohols and aldehydes. Its synthesis is often a topic of interest for students learning about reaction mechanisms.
  • Reactivity: Due to its electrophilic nature, 4-oxopent-2-enal can readily engage in nucleophilic additions, making it an important intermediate in organic synthesis. It also plays a role in the formation of Michael adducts.
  • Biological Relevance: In biochemistry, this compound can be involved in metabolic pathways and may serve as a precursor in the synthesis of bioactive molecules. Understanding its role can provide insights into biochemical processes.
  • Functional Group Interplay: Its unique combination of functional groups means that it can participate in condensation reactions and other coupling reactions, thereby contributing to the formation of complex molecular architectures.

In conclusion, 4-oxopent-2-enal demonstrates the intersection of structure, reactivity, and biological importance, making it a compound of both practical and theoretical interest. As students delve deeper into its properties, they uncover not just its chemical behavior but also its potential applications in synthetic and medicinal chemistry.

Synonyms
pent-2-ene-1,4-dione
5729-47-5
4-oxopent-2-enal
DTXSID40878785