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Genistein

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Identification
Molecular formula
C15H10O5
CAS number
446-72-0
IUPAC name
4,5-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-methoxy-chromen-7-one
State
State

At room temperature, genistein is in a solid state. It is typically a light yellow to off-white crystalline powder.

Melting point (Celsius)
297.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
570.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
270.24g/mol
Molar mass
270.2410g/mol
Density
1.2550g/cm3
Appearence

Genistein is a yellow crystalline powder that has little to no odor. It is known for its poor water solubility and can appear as a pale yellow solid in its pure form. Genistein's appearance can also vary, presenting sometimes as white to off-white powder when in a certain purity format.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4,5-Dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-methoxy-chromen-7-one (C15H10O5)

The solubility of the compound 4,5-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-methoxy-chromen-7-one can be described as follows:

  • Polar vs. Nonpolar Solvent: This compound is a phenolic derivative, which generally exhibits better solubility in polar solvents due to the presence of hydroxyl groups.
  • Solvent Choices: Common polar solvents such as water, methanol, or ethanol may aid in dissolving this compound effectively.
  • Temperature Dependency: The solubility is likely to increase with temperature; heating the solvent can enhance the dissolution process.
  • pH Influence: The solubility may also vary with pH, particularly due to the ionizable hydroxyl groups which can become protonated or deprotonated depending on the acidity or basicity of the solution.

In summary, **4,5-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-methoxy-chromen-7-one** exhibits a degree of solubility in polar solvents, significantly influenced by temperature and pH. Understanding these solubility characteristics is vital for applications in fields ranging from pharmaceuticals to food sciences.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 4,5-Dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-methoxy-chromen-7-one

This compound, often referred to in research settings, is a fascinating member of the flavonoid family. Flavonoids are known for their diverse biological activities, making them a topic of incredible interest in the fields of chemistry and pharmacology.

Key Characteristics and Uses

  • Natural Origin: This compound can be found in various plants, contributing to their health benefits and color.
  • Antioxidant Properties: It exhibits strong antioxidant activity, which can aid in protecting cells from oxidative stress.
  • Potential Therapeutic Applications: Research suggests that this compound may have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, making it a candidate for further pharmaceutical development.
  • Food Industry Relevance: Given its flavonoid nature, it can be beneficial in the food industry for preservation and coloring due to its stability and safety.

Moreover, it is worth noting that compounds like this one, with multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups, often exhibit a higher level of bioactivity compared to those with fewer functional groups. As such, the 4,5-dihydroxy moiety is pivotal in enhancing molecular interactions in biological systems.

Scientific Significance

In the world of chemistry, flavonoids such as 4,5-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-methoxy-chromen-7-one serve as essential research compounds due to their diverse functionalities. Future explorations may yield further insights, leading to innovative applications in health and nutrition. As the renowned chemist Sir Isaac Newton once said, "If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants," emphasizing the importance of building on established knowledge in the quest for new discoveries.

This compound represents just one of the countless examples of how organic compounds can have profound implications for health and technology, making it an exciting subject for both chemistry students and seasoned scientists alike.