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9-hydroxystearic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C18H36O3
CAS number
506-13-8
IUPAC name
(9R)-9-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, 9-hydroxystearic acid is typically a solid due to its long carbon chain and hydroxylation which increases melting point over many other fatty acids. This solid state is seen in forms like flakes or powders.

Melting point (Celsius)
79.20
Melting point (Kelvin)
352.30
Boiling point (Celsius)
443.30
Boiling point (Kelvin)
716.50
General information
Molecular weight
300.48g/mol
Molar mass
300.4970g/mol
Density
0.9823g/cm3
Appearence

9-Hydroxystearic acid appears as a white crystalline powder. It is visually characterized by its powdery form, and it is sometimes slightly yellow or colourless depending on purity and storage conditions. It is insoluble in water but soluble in alcohols and some polar organic solvents.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (9R)-9-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid

(9R)-9-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid, also known as 9-Hydroxy Stearic Acid, exhibits interesting solubility properties that are worth noting. This compound belongs to the fatty acid family, and its solubility can vary significantly depending on the media it is placed in. In general, its solubility characteristics can be described as follows:

  • Water: Due to the long hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain, (9R)-9-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid has limited solubility in water. The hydroxyl group does provide some polarity, but it is typically insufficient to solubilize the entire molecule in aqueous environments.
  • Organic solvents: This compound is more soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, methanol, and chloroform. The hydrophobic tail aligns well with nonpolar solvents, enhancing solubility.
  • Emulsifying properties: Its amphiphilic nature allows it to function as an emulsifier, meaning it can help to stabilize mixtures of water and oil, which is particularly useful in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations.

In summary, the solubility of (9R)-9-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid is characterized by:

  1. Low solubility in polar solvents like water.
  2. Higher solubility in nonpolar organic solvents.
  3. Effective emulsifying properties in mixed-phase systems.

Understanding these solubility traits can significantly impact the applications and effectiveness of (9R)-9-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid in various chemical and industrial processes.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (9R)-9-Hydroxyoctadecanoic Acid

(9R)-9-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid, commonly known for its distinctive hydroxyl functional group on the ninth carbon of an 18-carbon long fatty acid chain, presents a wealth of intriguing characteristics:

  • Biological Relevance: This compound plays a significant role in numerous biological systems, particularly as a precursor for various bioactive lipids that are involved in signaling pathways and cellular responses.
  • Natural Occurrence: It can be found in specific plant oils and has been identified in some microbial fatty acid syntheses, showing its ecological importance.
  • Potential Health Benefits: Research suggests that compounds like (9R)-9-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them of interest in the field of nutrition and health sciences.
  • Industrial Applications: Due to its unique chemical structure, this hydroxyl fatty acid is explored for applications in creating cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and lubricants, ensuring its significance extends beyond biological systems.

Scientists are continually investigating the precise mechanisms through which (9R)-9-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid operates, leading to enhanced understandings of human health and potential therapeutic applications. As we continue to unveil its secrets, it reaffirms the importance of fatty acids in both nature and technology.

“Nature itself is the best laboratory.” – this sentiment truly resonates when studying compounds like (9R)-9-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid, whose natural origins could inspire new innovations in health and industry.

Synonyms
9(R)-Hydroxyoctadecanoic acid
9R-hydroxy-octadecanoic acid
Octadecanoic acid, 9-hydroxy-, (R)-
Octadecanoic acid, 9-hydroxy-, D-(-)-
CHEMBL4792132
SCHEMBL20587804
LMFA02000197