Skip to main content

Butyl hexanoate

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C10H20O2
CAS number
626-82-4
IUPAC name
butyl hexanoate
State
State

At room temperature, butyl hexanoate is in a liquid state. It is a non-polar solvent, commonly used in organic synthesis due to its relatively high boiling point and low toxicity.

Melting point (Celsius)
-84.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
189.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
186.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
459.15
General information
Molecular weight
172.27g/mol
Molar mass
172.2670g/mol
Density
0.8630g/cm3
Appearence

Butyl hexanoate is a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a fruity odor. It is often described as having a pineapple or banana-like scent, which makes it a common ingredient in flavors and perfumes.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Butyl Hexanoate

Butyl hexanoate, with the chemical formula C8H16O2, is an ester that displays unique solubility characteristics. Understanding its solubility is essential for various applications in chemical processes and product formulations.

General Solubility Characteristics

Here are some key points regarding the solubility of butyl hexanoate:

  • Polar and Nonpolar Solvents: Butyl hexanoate is primarily soluble in nonpolar solvents due to its hydrocarbon chains, while exhibiting limited solubility in polar solvents like water.
  • Water Insolubility: Its insolubility in water can be attributed to the long hydrophobic carbon chain, making it more compatible with organic solvents.
  • Organic Solvent Compatibility: It mixes well with a range of organic solvents such as ethanol, hexane, and other aliphatic solvents, facilitating its use in formulations.
  • Intermolecular Interactions: The nature of the intermolecular forces, particularly van der Waals forces in nonpolar environments, enhances butyl hexanoate's solubility in nonpolar matrices.

Applications and Implications

Due to its solubility properties, butyl hexanoate is commonly utilized in:

  • Flavor and fragrance industries, where it acts as a solvent for various compounds.
  • Cosmetic formulations, benefiting from its compatibility with other oils and esters.

In summary, while butyl hexanoate is practically insoluble in water, its solubility in nonpolar solvents makes it a versatile compound across many applications. Understanding its solubility behavior enhances its utility in both industrial and laboratory contexts.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Butyl Hexanoate

Butyl hexanoate, an ester derived from butanol and hexanoic acid, is a compound that captivates both scientists and fragrance enthusiasts alike due to its delightful properties and applications. Here are some engaging insights:

  • Fragrance and Flavor: One of the most notable features of butyl hexanoate is its sweet, fruity aroma, reminiscent of *bananas* and *peaches*. This makes it a popular choice in the food and cosmetic industries, where it is used as a flavoring agent and fragrance component.
  • Versatile Applications: Beyond being a flavoring and fragrance agent, butyl hexanoate is also employed in the formulation of various products including:
    • Perfumes
    • Food flavorings
    • Paints and coatings
    • Personal care products
  • Natural Occurrence: Interestingly, butyl hexanoate occurs naturally in certain fruits and can be found in various plant extracts. This natural occurrence can enhance product authenticity, especially in organic formulations.
  • Esters in Chemistry: Butyl hexanoate serves as a great example of how esters can be synthesized through the reaction of an alcohol with an acid, illustrating key concepts of organic chemistry such as *esterification* and the role of functional groups.
  • Chemical Behavior: In terms of reactivity, esters, including butyl hexanoate, can undergo hydrolysis and transesterification, providing students a profound understanding of chemical reactions and their mechanisms.

As a student or scientist exploring the world of organic compounds, butyl hexanoate presents a fascinating intersection of *scent*, *taste*, and *chemical structure*. Its wide range of applications not only highlights its commercial value but also its integral role in understanding organic reaction pathways.

Synonyms
Butyl hexanoate
626-82-4
Butyl caproate
Hexanoic acid, butyl ester
N-BUTYL HEXANOATE
n-Butyl caproate
n-Caproic acid n-butyl ester
n-Butyl n-hexanoate
FEMA No. 2201
Butyl ester of hexanoic acid
EBK588Q27T
NSC-4022
BUTYL HEXANOATE [FHFI]
DTXSID8060824
CHEBI:89561
FEMA 2201
WE(4:0/6:0)
BUTYL HEXANOATE [USP-RS]
BUTYL HEXANOATE (USP-RS)
Butyl hexanoic acid
DTXCID0043422
210-964-6
rprpdtxkgsixmd-uhfffaoysa-n
Hexanoic Acid Butyl Ester
n-Caproic acid-n-butyl ester
MFCD00053804
SCHEMBL48779
Butyl caproate, NSC 4022
Butyl hexanoate, >=98%, FG
NSC4022
Butyl hexanoate, analytical standard
LMFA07010436
AKOS015904473
CS-W010768
LS-13891
H0107
NS00012042
Q3135039
Butyl caproate; Butyl hexanoate; NSC 4022; n-Butyl hexanoate
Butyl hexanoate, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard