Skip to main content

Retinal

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C20H28O
CAS number
116-31-4
IUPAC name
6,10,14,18-tetramethylnonadeca-5,9,13,17-tetraen-2-one
State
State

At room temperature, retinal is a solid. It is typically handled as a powder or crystalline solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
63.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
336.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
422.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
695.15
General information
Molecular weight
284.45g/mol
Molar mass
284.4790g/mol
Density
0.9443g/cm3
Appearence

Retinal appears as a pale yellow to orange crystalline solid. It exhibits a distinct color characteristic of many conjugated aldehydes, due to the extensive system of conjugated double bonds.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 6,10,14,18-tetramethylnonadeca-5,9,13,17-tetraen-2-one

The solubility of the compound 6,10,14,18-tetramethylnonadeca-5,9,13,17-tetraen-2-one (C20H28O) can be influenced by several factors due to its unique structural characteristics.

Factors Affecting Solubility:

  • Polarity: The presence of a ketone functional group can impart some polarity, which may allow for moderate solubility in polar solvents like alcohols or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO).
  • Hydrophobicity: Given the extensive hydrocarbon chain, this compound is likely to exhibit hydrophobic characteristics, favoring solubility in organic solvents such as hexane or chloroform over water.
  • Chain Length: The long carbon chain typically leads to lower aqueous solubility due to steric hindrance and increased van der Waals interactions.

In practice, expectations regarding solubility can be summarized as follows:

  • Soluble in organic solvents: Highly compatible with nonpolar solvents.
  • Poorly soluble in water: Limited interaction with water molecules due to the hydrophobic nature.
  • Moderate solubility in polar organic solvents: Possible dissolution in solvents with a mix of polar and nonpolar characteristics.

Consequently, while this compound can find suitable solubility under certain conditions, it is crucial to select an appropriate solvent based on its unique properties and structural features.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 6,10,14,18-Tetramethylnonadeca-5,9,13,17-tetraen-2-one

6,10,14,18-tetramethylnonadeca-5,9,13,17-tetraen-2-one is a fascinating compound of significant interest in organic chemistry and related fields. Here are some noteworthy aspects to consider:

  • Complex Structure: This compound features a unique tetradeca (14 carbon) backbone with four double bonds and a ketone functional group. Its complexity opens up discussions about its synthesis and reactivity.
  • Natural Occurrence: Compounds with similar structures are often found in nature, particularly in botanical species. This raises intriguing questions about their roles in ecology and how they might interact with biological systems.
  • Synthesis Challenges: The synthesis of such a complex molecule typically requires advanced organic synthesis techniques, such as cross-coupling reactions or multi-step synthesis, showcasing the ingenuity of chemists.
  • Potential Applications: Compounds like this can have applications in the fragrance industry, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. Their versatility makes them helpful for developing new materials or medicinal products.
  • Chemical Behavior: The presence of double bonds in its structure suggests that this compound may engage in various chemical reactions, including addition reactions, which can be particularly valuable in organic synthesis.
  • Research Opportunities: The intriguing properties of this compound mean there is ongoing research into its potential uses, mechanisms, and interactions, providing a rich ground for students and scientists alike.

This compound exemplifies the beauty and complexity of organic chemistry. Studying such molecules can illuminate not only fundamental chemical principles but also their applications in real-world scenarios. Remember, “Every molecule tells a story,” and understanding these can lead to greater insights in both science and industry!

Synonyms
6809-52-5
(5Z,9Z,13E)-Geranylgeranylacetone
(5Z,9Z,13Z)-Geranylgeranylacetone
3879-24-1
CHEMBL4288428
DTXSID50859989
HUCXKZBETONXFO-UHFFFAOYSA-N
DAA87924
NS00036407
6,10,14,18-tetramethyl-5,9,13,17-nonadecatetraene-2-on