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Ammonium butyrate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C4H9NO2
CAS number
631-61-8
IUPAC name
ammonium;butanoate
State
State
Ammonium butyrate is typically found as a crystalline solid at room temperature. It is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air.
Melting point (Celsius)
-65.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
208.20
Boiling point (Celsius)
136.10
Boiling point (Kelvin)
409.30
General information
Molecular weight
103.12g/mol
Molar mass
103.1240g/mol
Density
1.0056g/cm3
Appearence

Ammonium butyrate appears as a white crystalline powder at room temperature. It has a slightly unpleasant odor, which is typical of butyrate compounds, but it is generally considered to be less offensive than the odor of butyric acid itself.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Ammonium Butanoate

Ammonium butanoate, with the chemical formula NH4C4H7O2, exhibits notable solubility characteristics that make it a compound of interest in various applications.


Key Points on Solubility:

  • Highly Soluble in Water: Ammonium butanoate is highly soluble in water, which allows for easy incorporation into aqueous solutions.
  • Influence of Temperature: Like many salts, its solubility tends to increase with rising temperatures, making it advantageous in thermal processes.
  • pH Dependency: The solubility can be influenced by the pH of the solution, as changes can affect the ionization state of the compound.

As an example, in solution, the dissociation of ammonium butanoate can be represented as follows:

NH4C4H7O2 → NH4+ + C4H7O2-

This dissociation enhances its availability for biological processes, as both the ammonium ion and butanoate ion play roles in metabolic pathways.


Applications and Implications:

Due to its solubility, ammonium butanoate is widely used in:

  • Fertilizers, where it acts as a nitrogen source
  • Food applications, particularly in flavoring and enhancing taste
  • Pharmaceutical formulations, contributing to the bioavailability of medications

In summary, the significant solubility of ammonium butanoate in water makes it an essential compound in various fields, facilitating its use and interaction in numerous chemical processes.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Ammonium Butanoate

Ammonium butanoate is a fascinating compound that falls under the category of ammonium salts. Here are some engaging facts that highlight its significance and uses:

  • Structure and Composition: This compound is formed from the combination of ammonium ions (NH4+) and butanoate ions (C4H7O2), resulting in a unique structure that contributes to its properties.
  • Nature of Butanoate: The butanoate ion, derived from butanoic acid, imparts interesting characteristics to the compound. Butanoic acid is known for its strong odor reminiscent of rancid butter, and this can influence the behavior of ammonium butanoate in different applications.
  • Biological Relevance: Ammonium butanoate is notable in metabolic pathways. It is used in various biochemical research studies, particularly relating to butyrate, which plays a role in gut health and regulation of inflammation in the human body.
  • Application in Agriculture: This compound can serve as a nitrogen source in fertilizers, providing critical nutrients to plants and improving soil health.
  • Food Industry Usage: It may find applications as a food additive, where its role can enhance flavors and provide needed nutrients.

In the words of chemist Michael L. Smith, “Understanding the intricate nature of compounds like ammonium butanoate opens up pathways to innovative agricultural and health solutions.” This reflects the compound's significance in both scientific research and practical uses.

In conclusion, ammonium butanoate illustrates how a simple ionic compound can bridge the gap between chemistry, biology, and agriculture, showcasing the interconnectedness of various scientific fields.

Synonyms
Ammonium butyrate
Butanoic acid, ammonium salt (1:1)
BUTANOIC ACID, AMMONIUM SALT
EINECS 238-207-5
DTXSID60884742
DTXCID301024167
238-207-5
azanium;butanoate
14287-04-8
ammoniumbutyrat
NS00086864