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4,6-Dimethyloctanoic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C10H20O2
CAS number
63653-34-5
IUPAC name
4,6-dimethyloctanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, 4,6-Dimethyloctanoic acid is in a liquid state, as is common with many short to medium-chain fatty acids. It possesses viscosity typical of oily substances, which is indicative of its liquid state at ambient conditions.

Melting point (Celsius)
-5.10
Melting point (Kelvin)
268.05
Boiling point (Celsius)
289.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
562.65
General information
Molecular weight
186.31g/mol
Molar mass
186.3090g/mol
Density
0.8900g/cm3
Appearence

4,6-Dimethyloctanoic acid is typically a colorless liquid at room temperature. Since it is a fatty acid with alkyl groups, it has a slightly oily appearance. It may also have a characteristic fatty acid odor.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4,6-Dimethyloctanoic Acid

4,6-Dimethyloctanoic acid, a fatty acid with the chemical formula C10H20O2, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics. Its solubility can be influenced by various factors:

  • Solvent Polarity: As a carboxylic acid, 4,6-dimethyloctanoic acid is generally soluble in polar solvents such as water to a limited extent, while being more soluble in non-polar organic solvents like hexane.
  • Temperature: The solubility tends to increase with temperature; thus, heating the solvent can enhance the dissolution of the acid.
  • Chain Length: The long hydrophobic tail of the molecule affects its overall solubility, making it less soluble in water compared to carboxylic acids with shorter carbon chains.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The presence of the carboxylic group allows the molecule to engage in hydrogen bonding with water, albeit less effectively due to the larger hydrophobic section of the molecule.

In summary, while 4,6-dimethyloctanoic acid can dissolve in various solvents, its solubility is markedly reduced in water due to its long hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain. As a result, it showcases a behavior typical of larger fatty acids: limited water solubility contrasted with a better affinity for organic solvents.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 4,6-Dimethyloctanoic Acid

4,6-Dimethyloctanoic acid is a fascinating compound that belongs to the family of fatty acids, specifically classified as a branched-chain fatty acid. This compound has garnered attention in various fields due to its unique structural characteristics and potential applications. Here are some intriguing aspects:

  • Structural Brilliance: The presence of two methyl groups at the 4th and 6th positions of the octanoic acid chain introduces branching, which influences its chemical reactivity and physical properties. This branching can enhance the compound's compatibility with other molecules.
  • Biological Relevance: Like other fatty acids, 4,6-dimethyloctanoic acid plays a role in metabolic processes. It is studied in the context of lipid metabolism and its potential impact on various health conditions. Understanding this compound can provide insights into dietary fats and their health implications.
  • Industrial Applications: This compound has been investigated for potential uses in the production of esters and surfactants. Its unique structure makes it a candidate for creating specialty chemicals that can impart desirable properties to products.
  • Cosmetic and Personal Care: Due to its fatty acid nature, 4,6-dimethyloctanoic acid may be evaluated for inclusion in cosmetic formulations. Fatty acids are known for their emollient properties, contributing to skin hydration and product stability.

In summary, 4,6-dimethyloctanoic acid is more than just a simple fatty acid; its branched structure offers a variety of intriguing possibilities in chemistry and biology. As one delves deeper into its properties and applications, it becomes clear that this compound holds essential lessons about the complexity of chemical interactions in both natural and synthetic contexts.

Synonyms
4,6-DIMETHYLOCTANOIC ACID
2553-96-0
4,6-Dimethyloctanoato(3-)
SCHEMBL5243433
DTXSID80948431
LMFRDZYWEWGVPW-UHFFFAOYSA-N
AKOS006277738