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5-Hydroxydodecanoic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C12H24O3
CAS number
1115-22-0
IUPAC name
5-hydroxydodecanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, 5-hydroxydodecanoic acid is typically found in a solid state.

Melting point (Celsius)
88.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
361.20
Boiling point (Celsius)
340.10
Boiling point (Kelvin)
613.20
General information
Molecular weight
216.32g/mol
Molar mass
216.3140g/mol
Density
0.9892g/cm3
Appearence

5-Hydroxydodecanoic acid appears as a white to off-white solid or powder. It is often available as a wax-like solid and can sometimes appear in the form of crystalline flakes, depending on the conditions and purity.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 5-Hydroxydodecanoic Acid

5-hydroxydodecanoic acid, a long-chain fatty acid with a hydroxyl group, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that can be influenced by various factors. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Polar vs. Nonpolar Properties: The presence of the hydroxyl functional group makes 5-hydroxydodecanoic acid somewhat polar, enhancing its solubility in polar solvents like water to some extent.
  • Solvent Interaction: This compound is more soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone compared to aqueous solutions due to its long hydrocarbon chain.
  • Temperature Influence: Solubility can increase with higher temperature, as increased thermal energy often promotes solute dissolution in solvents.
  • Concentration Dependency: In solutions, the solubility of 5-hydroxydodecanoic acid can reach a saturation point, indicating that excess amounts will not dissolve further.

In summary, while 5-hydroxydodecanoic acid is moderately soluble in water, its solubility increases significantly in organic solvents, underlining the importance of understanding both the chemical structure and the environment when discussing solubility.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 5-Hydroxydodecanoic Acid

5-Hydroxydodecanoic acid is a fascinating compound that showcases the complexity of organic chemistry. Here are some intriguing details about this fatty acid:

  • Structure and Functionality: This compound features a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the fifth carbon of a dodecanoic acid chain. This unique structure gives it distinct properties compared to its saturated analogs.
  • Biological Significance: Fatty acids like 5-hydroxydodecanoic acid play crucial roles in biological systems. They are involved in membrane formation, energy storage, and signaling pathways.
  • Potential Applications: Researchers are exploring the use of 5-hydroxydodecanoic acid in various fields, including:
    • As a potential ingredient in cosmetics and skin care products, due to its moisturizing properties.
    • In the development of surfactants and emulsifiers for food and industrial applications.
    • As a precursor in synthesizing bioactive materials for pharmaceuticals.
  • Synthesis: The synthesis of 5-hydroxydodecanoic acid can be achieved through several methods, often involving the oxidation of corresponding fatty aldehydes or the hydrolysis of fatty esters.
  • Research Frontiers: Its unique properties make it a point of interest in chemical research, particularly in the study of fatty acids' role in human health and their impact on metabolism.

As quoted by a prominent chemist, “The beauty of organic chemistry is in its ability to show how small changes in structure can lead to significantly different properties and functions.” 5-Hydroxydodecanoic acid is a perfect illustration of this principle, furthering our understanding of fatty acids in both nature and industry.

Synonyms
5-HYDROXYDODECANOIC ACID
5-hydroxylauric acid
7779-95-5
xi-5-Hydroxydodecanoic acid
SCHEMBL317544
CHEMBL4301036
CHEBI:171725
DTXSID001019117
LMFA01050529
AKOS040767397
G67331