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6-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C21H14
CAS number
7304-12-7
IUPAC name
6-methylbenzo[a]pyrene
State
State
6-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene is a solid at room temperature.
Melting point (Celsius)
92.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
365.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
506.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
779.15
General information
Molecular weight
266.34g/mol
Molar mass
266.3360g/mol
Density
1.2000g/cm3
Appearence
6-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene appears as pale yellow crystals. It is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) that is part of the benzo[a]pyrene family with an additional methyl group.
Comment on solubility

Solubility of 6-methylbenzo[a]pyrene

6-methylbenzo[a]pyrene, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, exhibits notable solubility characteristics that are important for its behavior in various environments.

Solubility Properties

This compound is known to have:

  • Low solubility in water: Like many polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, 6-methylbenzo[a]pyrene typically displays minimal solubility in aqueous solutions due to its hydrophobic nature.
  • Higher solubility in organic solvents: It tends to dissolve well in organic solvents such as benzene, toluene, and acetone, which facilitates its extraction and analysis in laboratory settings.
  • Dependence on temperature: The solubility can vary with temperature; generally, increased temperature enhances solubility in organic solvents.

As stated, "The solubility of aromatic hydrocarbons in non-polar solvents is often much greater than in polar solvents," highlighting the importance of considering solvent type in experimental scenarios. This characteristic influences toxicological studies, environmental assessments, and even biodegradation processes.

In summary, understanding the solubility of 6-methylbenzo[a]pyrene is crucial for its application in fields such as environmental chemistry and toxicology, as it affects its transportation, bioavailability, and overall ecological impact.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 6-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene

6-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene is a fascinating polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), known for its significant implications in environmental chemistry and toxicology. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Carcinogenic Properties: 6-Methylbenzo[a]pyrene is recognized as a potent carcinogen. It has been studied extensively for its ability to induce tumors in laboratory animals, highlighting the importance of monitoring and regulating PAHs in industrial and environmental settings.
  • Environmental Presence: This compound is typically formed during the incomplete combustion of organic materials. Common sources include:
    • Fossil fuel burning
    • Tobacco smoke
    • Grilling and barbecuing
    • Forest fires
    • Industrial processes
    • Urban runoff
  • Biological Relevance: Due to its structure, 6-methylbenzo[a]pyrene can intercalate into DNA, causing mutagenic changes that may lead to cancer. This aspect makes it a subject of interest in molecular biology and pharmacology.
  • Detection Methods: The detection of 6-methylbenzo[a]pyrene in environmental samples is typically performed through advanced analytical techniques such as:
    • Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)
    • High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
    • Solid-phase microextraction (SPME)
  • Regulatory Considerations: Due to its harmful effects, regulatory agencies impose limits on acceptable levels of PAHs in food, air, and water, emphasizing the need for ongoing research and public awareness.

As a chemistry student or researcher, understanding the properties and behaviors of compounds like 6-methylbenzo[a]pyrene is essential for addressing environmental health challenges. Our need to balance industrial development with safety necessitates continued scientific inquiry into the impacts of such compounds on human health and the ecosystem.

Synonyms
6-methylbenzo[a]pyrene
2381-39-7
6-METHYLBENZO(A)PYRENE
5-Methyl-3,4-benzpyrene
5-Methyl-3,4-benzopyrene
Benzo(a)pyrene, 6-methyl-
CCRIS 1119
EINECS 219-179-3
BRN 2213526
DTXSID00878544
DTXCID401016589
3-05-00-02529 (beilstein handbook reference)
6-Methylbenzo[def]chrysene
6-Methylbenzo(def)chrysene
Methylbenzoprene
Benzo[a]pyrene, 6-methyl
Methylbenzo(a)pyrene, 6-
6-Methyl-3,4-benzopyrene
3RZA2C33TG
YFYHJNJCAGHSFA-UHFFFAOYSA-N
NS00048806
94537-20-9