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Dimethyl oxalate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C4H6O4
CAS number
553-90-2
IUPAC name
dimethyl oxalate
State
State
Solid at room temperature.
Melting point (Celsius)
54.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
327.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
163.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
436.15
General information
Molecular weight
118.09g/mol
Molar mass
118.0890g/mol
Density
1.1467g/cm3
Appearence

Dimethyl oxalate is a colorless crystalline solid that usually appears in powdered form. It is often used in organic synthesis and can be found as a fine crystalline powder.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Dimethyl Oxalate

Dimethyl oxalate, with the chemical formula C4H6O4, exhibits notable solubility properties that are worth discussing. This compound is primarily known for its interaction with various solvents:

  • Solvent Preferences: Dimethyl oxalate is highly soluble in water, which is a key characteristic of many oxalates. This solubility allows for effective use in chemical reactions and industrial applications.
  • Organic Solvents: Additionally, it shows excellent solubility in organic solvents like acetone and ethanol, making it versatile for use in organic synthesis.
  • Temperature Effects: The solubility of dimethyl oxalate can also be influenced by temperature; generally, higher temperatures increase solubility in various solvents.

As a result, dimethyl oxalate's solubility in both water and organic solvents enhances its utility in numerous chemical contexts. Its ability to dissolve readily makes it a valuable compound in the laboratory and industrial settings.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Dimethyl Oxalate

Dimethyl oxalate is an intriguing compound known for its diverse applications and unique chemical properties. Here are some fascinating aspects of this compound:

  • Versatile Solvent: Dimethyl oxalate acts as an effective solvent in various chemical reactions, making it valuable in organic synthesis.
  • Precursor in Synthesis: It serves as a precursor for synthesizing other compounds, such as oxalic acid and certain esters, highlighting its role in organic chemistry.
  • Environmental Considerations: This compound is considered more environmentally friendly compared to other oxalate derivatives, due to its relatively lower toxicity.
  • Applications: Dimethyl oxalate finds use in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals.
  • Reactivity: It can undergo esterification and transesterification reactions, showcasing its reactivity and utility in synthetic chemistry.
  • Safety Precautions: As with many chemicals, handling dimethyl oxalate requires safety precautions to minimize potential risks, emphasizing the importance of good laboratory practices.

As a chemistry student, understanding compounds like dimethyl oxalate enhances your grasp of organic reactions and the importance of solvents in chemical processes. The study of such compounds underscores the interconnected nature of chemistry and its relevance to real-world applications.

Synonyms
Dimethyl oxalate
METHYL OXALATE
Ethanedioic acid, dimethyl ester
NSC 9374
EINECS 209-053-6
UNII-IQ3Q79344S
AI3-21214
IQ3Q79344S
NSC-9374
Ethanedioic acid, 1,2-dimethyl ester
METHYL OXALATE [MI]
DTXSID9060287
Dimethyl oxalic acid
DIMETHYL OXALATE [INCI]
DTXCID4041866
209-053-6
inchi=1/c4h6o4/c1-7-3(5)4(6)8-2/h1-2h
lomvenunswaxen-uhfffaoysa-n
un1759
553-90-2
Oxalic acid dimethyl ester
Oxalic acid, dimethyl ester
MFCD00008442
dimethyl ethanedioate
Dimethyloxalate
SCHEMBL8295
CHEBI:6859
NSC9374
HY-Y0856
BBL011507
STL146620
AKOS000269022
Dimethyl oxalate, ReagentPlus(R), 99%
AS-12646
NS00013598
O0080
EN300-20093
E78838
Dimethyl oxalate, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 98%
A830619
Q412931
F0001-1452