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Cholesterol

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Identification
Molecular formula
C27H46O
CAS number
57-88-5
IUPAC name
(5S,8R,9S,10S,13S,14S,17S)-2,10,13,17-tetramethyl-1,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-dodecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-ol
State
State
At room temperature, cholesterol exists as a solid. It is insoluble in water but soluble in alcohol and other organic solvents.
Melting point (Celsius)
148.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
421.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
360.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
633.15
General information
Molecular weight
386.65g/mol
Molar mass
386.6540g/mol
Density
1.0529g/cm3
Appearence
Cholesterol is a white, crystalline solid. It is often described as having a waxy appearance due to its crystalline structure. Under the microscope, cholesterol crystals can be seen as flat plates.
Comment on solubility

Solubility Characteristics

The compound (5S,8R,9S,10S,13S,14S,17S)-2,10,13,17-tetramethyl-1,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-dodecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-ol possesses distinctive solubility properties that merit attention.

General Solubility Behavior

This compound is likely to exhibit varying solubility in different solvents due to its complex molecular structure and functional groups. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Polar solvents: It may show limited solubility in polar solvents such as water because of its hydrophobic characteristics.
  • Non-polar solvents: Conversely, the compound is expected to dissolve well in non-polar organic solvents, such as hexane or toluene, due to the presence of extensive hydrophobic alkyl groups.
  • Hydroxyl group influence: The hydroxyl (-OH) group may impart some degree of polarity, enhancing solubility in alcohols or other similar solvents.

Factors Affecting Solubility

Several factors can influence the solubility of this compound:

  • Temperature: Increased temperature often leads to greater solubility in solids, which might apply if this compound were to be tested.
  • Solvent characteristics: The choice of solvent and its ability to disrupt intermolecular forces is crucial.
  • Concentration: When concentrated, some compounds may exhibit reduced solubility.

In summary, the solubility of (5S,8R,9S,10S,13S,14S,17S)-2,10,13,17-tetramethyl-1,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-dodecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-ol is a complex interplay of molecular structure, solvent characteristics, and environmental conditions, making it a fascinating subject for further exploration. Always consider conducting solubility tests under varying conditions to fully ascertain its behavior in different environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (5S,8R,9S,10S,13S,14S,17S)-2,10,13,17-tetramethyl-1,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-dodecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-ol

This compound, commonly known in the scientific community as a steroid-like molecule, has several fascinating properties and aspects worth noting:

  • Steroidal Nature: Its structure features multiple fused rings, typical of steroid compounds, which are crucial in various biological processes.
  • Biochemical Significance: Compounds of this nature often play roles in hormonal activity, influencing a wide array of physiological functions in living organisms.
  • Complex Configuration: The intricate stereochemistry, denoted by various stereocenters (notably the S and R configurations), indicates the compound’s potential to exhibit different biological activities based on its chirality.
  • Natural Occurrence: Many related sterols are naturally occurring, and their derivatives may be found in plants and animals, contributing to the compound’s relevance in both natural and synthetic chemistry.
  • Applications in Medicine: Research is being conducted into similar compounds for their potential therapeutic applications, including anti-inflammatory and hormonal treatments.

In summary, the molecular architecture of this compound not only showcases the beauty of classical organic chemistry but also illustrates the profound impact such compounds can have in biological systems. As we delve deeper into its research, we continue to discover new horizons for applications in medicine and biotechnology!

Synonyms
2527-18-6
2,17-alpha-Dimethyl-5-alpha-androst-2-en-17-beta-ol
(5S,8R,9S,10S,13S,14S,17S)-2,10,13,17-tetramethyl-1,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-dodecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-ol
2,17-Dimethyl-5?-androst-2-en-17?-ol
2,17-Dimethyl-5alpha-androst-2-en-17beta-ol
5-alpha-ANDROST-2-EN-17-beta-OL, 2,17-alpha-DIMETHYL-
DTXSID00948115
2,17-Dimethylandrost-2-en-17-ol