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Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
C4H12ClNO2
CAS number
1837-57-6
IUPAC name
bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium;chloride
State
State

At room temperature, bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride is in a solid state.

Melting point (Celsius)
241.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
514.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
165.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
438.15
General information
Molecular weight
125.59g/mol
Molar mass
125.5850g/mol
Density
1.0960g/cm3
Appearence

Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride is typically found as a white, crystalline solid. However, the exact appearance may vary from slightly beige to off-white depending on impurities. It is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium Chloride

Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride, often represented as [(HOCH2CH2)2NH3]Cl, exhibits interesting solubility properties primarily attributable to its ionic nature and the presence of hydroxyl groups.

Water Solubility

This compound is highly soluble in water due to several factors:

  • Ionic Character: The chloride ion allows for strong interactions with water molecules, enhancing solubility.
  • Hydroxyl Groups: The two hydroxyl (–OH) groups present in the structure engage in hydrogen bonding with water, promoting even greater solubility.
  • Temperature Dependence: Its solubility may increase with temperature, which is a common characteristic for many ionic compounds.

Solvent Compatibility

In addition to water, bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride may also exhibit solubility in:

  • Polar organic solvents
  • Some alcohols, due to its polar nature

However, it is generally less soluble in nonpolar solvents, where ionic compounds typically struggle to dissolve.

In conclusion, bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride's solubility profile is defined by its ionic composition and functional groups, making it a compound of interest in various chemical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium Chloride

Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride, often referred to in the scientific community as quaternary ammonium compound, is a fascinating and essential chemical in various applications. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Quaternary Ammonium Structure: This compound features a nitrogen atom bonded to four substituents, which include two hydroxyethyl groups. The presence of both hydroxy and ammonium groups contributes to its unique properties.
  • Versatile Applications: It is widely used in several fields, such as:
    • Pharmaceuticals: Utilized in drug formulations as a stabilizer or emulsifier.
    • Cosmetics: Acts as a conditioning agent in hair and skin products.
    • Industrial Cleaning: Employed in disinfectants due to its antimicrobial properties.
  • Surfactant Properties: Due to its amphiphilic nature, bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride can lower surface tension, making it effective in cleaning and wetting applications.
  • Biocompatibility: The compatibility of this compound with biological systems makes it a subject of interest in biomedical research, especially for drug delivery systems.
  • Research Studies: Ongoing studies are exploring its role in designing functional materials and its potential as a platform for creating more advanced chemical derivatives.

In summary, the study of bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride not only enhances our understanding of quaternary ammonium compounds but also opens new avenues for innovation in various scientific fields. As one researcher noted, "The versatility of quaternary ammonium compounds like bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride exemplifies the beauty of chemistry in solving real-world problems."

Synonyms
bis(2-hydroxyethyl)azanium;chloride
Bis(hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride
EINECS 238-396-4
UNII-OI45OUW092
N-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)-ammonium chloride