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4-Mercaptobutyric acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C4H8O2S
CAS number
17639-82-4
IUPAC name
4-sulfanylbutanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, 4-Mercaptobutyric acid is in a liquid state.

Melting point (Celsius)
-13.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
259.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
254.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
527.15
General information
Molecular weight
120.17g/mol
Molar mass
120.1710g/mol
Density
1.1580g/cm3
Appearence

4-Mercaptobutyric acid is typically a colorless or slightly yellow liquid. It has an unpleasant odor often associated with thiol compounds.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4-sulfanylbutanoic acid (C4H8O2S)

4-sulfanylbutanoic acid, also known as mercaptobutyric acid, demonstrates interesting solubility characteristics due to its molecular structure. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Aqueous Solubility: 4-sulfanylbutanoic acid is typically soluble in water, which can be attributed to the presence of the carboxylic acid functional group that forms hydrogen bonds with water molecules.
  • Polarity: The compound is polar due to the -SH group and the -COOH group, enhancing its affinity for polar solvents like water.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: It exhibits moderate solubility in some organic solvents, but less so than in aqueous solutions due to the polar nature of its functional groups.
  • pH Dependence: The solubility may change with pH, as the carboxylic acid group can ionize in more basic conditions, potentially increasing solubility.

In conclusion, 4-sulfanylbutanoic acid is characterized by its good solubility in water while exhibiting some solubility in organic solvents. The polar nature of its functional groups plays a significant role in these solubility behaviors, highlighting its versatility in various chemical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 4-Sulfanylbutanoic Acid

4-Sulfanylbutanoic acid is a fascinating compound with unique properties and applications that make it a subject of interest in both organic chemistry and biochemical research. Here are some insightful points about this intriguing molecule:

  • Biological Relevance: This compound is associated with various metabolic pathways, particularly in the synthesis of amino acids and other sulfur-containing biomolecules.
  • Amino Acid Precursor: It plays an essential role as a precursor in the biosynthesis of specific amino acids, contributing to protein structure and function.
  • Flavor Enhancer: Remarkably, certain sulfur-containing compounds, including derivatives of 4-sulfanylbutanoic acid, are known to contribute to flavor profiles in food, enhancing their sensory appeal.
  • Research Applications: The study of this compound extends into pharmaceutical research, where it's being investigated for its potential therapeutic effects and interactions within biological systems.
  • Structural Diversity: 4-Sulfanylbutanoic acid exhibits structural versatility, enabling the formation of various derivatives that may offer distinct biological activities or properties.

Quotes from the Field

As mentioned by renowned organic chemists, *“The study of sulfur-containing compounds expands our understanding of both organic chemistry and the biochemical landscape.”* This statement highlights the importance of compounds like 4-sulfanylbutanoic acid in advancing scientific knowledge.

This compound serves as a prime example of how seemingly simple molecular structures can hold profound significance in both nature and applied sciences. Whether you are a seasoned chemist or a student just beginning your journey, the exploration of 4-sulfanylbutanoic acid can provide valuable insights into the intricate world of chemical compounds.

Synonyms
4-Mercaptobutyric acid
13095-73-3
Butanoic acid, 4-mercapto-
4-Mercaptobutanoic acid
EINECS 236-013-5
BRN 0773863
BUTYRIC ACID, 4-MERCAPTO-
DTXSID5065350
4-03-00-00777 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
DTXCID6034003
236-013-5
4-sulfanylbutanoic acid
gamma-Mercaptobutyric acid
4-Mercaptobutyric acid, technical grade
delta-Mercaptobutyricacid
MFCD00053842
CHEMBL1076479
GMBA
3-Mercaptomethyl propionic acid
4-Mercaptobutanoicacid
4-sulfanylbutyric acid
gamma-sulfanylbutyric acid
gamma-mercaptobutanoic acid
H83ZE7K3VU
SCHEMBL37529
SCHEMBL967584
SCHEMBL9308672
SCHEMBL28628136
CHEBI:138400
4-mercaptobutyric acid, AldrichCPR
BDBM50311532
AKOS009075879
FM25087
FS-5441
DISCONTINUED. Please see S644825
4-Thiobutyric acid;4-Mercaptobutanoic acid
DB-229165
DB-263149
NS00024137
EN300-22354
C21736
F20547
Z147642510