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Ethyl eicosanoate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C22H44O2
CAS number
112-97-0
IUPAC name
ethyl icosanoate
State
State

At room temperature, ethyl eicosanoate is in a liquid state. It has a relatively low melting point for a compound of its molar mass, allowing it to remain liquid at standard ambient conditions. Its long hydrocarbon chain contributes to a low melting transition associated with waxy substances.

Melting point (Celsius)
5.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
278.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
343.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
616.15
General information
Molecular weight
340.58g/mol
Molar mass
340.5810g/mol
Density
0.8624g/cm3
Appearence

Ethyl eicosanoate is a colorless to pale yellow oily liquid. It is typically odorless, but can sometimes have a mild, fruity scent characteristic of ester compounds. Its appearance is consistent with many other long-chain esters and fatty acid derivatives.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Ethyl Icosanoate

Ethyl icosanoate, with the chemical formula C22H44O2, is an ester derived from the fatty acid icosanoic acid and ethanol. When examining its solubility characteristics, we find that:

  • Solubility in Water: Ethyl icosanoate is generally insoluble in water. Due to its long hydrocarbon chain, the molecule exhibits non-polar characteristics that hinder its interaction with polar solvents like water.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: Conversely, ethyl icosanoate dissolves well in organic solvents like ethanol, hexane, and dichloromethane. This is attributed to its non-polar nature, which aligns well with other non-polar solvents.
  • Temperature Effects: As with many esters, the solubility in organic solvents can be influenced by temperature, where increased heat may lead to enhanced solubility.

In summary, while ethyl icosanoate displays poor water solubility due to its extensive hydrophobic nature, it is quite soluble in organic solvents, making it a versatile compound in various applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Ethyl Icosanoate

Ethyl icosanoate is an intriguing compound that belongs to the family of esters. This compound is extensively studied and utilized due to its unique properties and applications. Below are some fascinating facts about ethyl icosanoate:

  • Natural Occurrence: Ethyl icosanoate is often found in natural products, particularly in certain fruits and oils, adding to their aroma and flavor profile.
  • Flavor and Fragrance: Because of its pleasant smell, ethyl icosanoate is commonly used in the food industry as a flavoring agent and in perfumes to impart a fruity aroma.
  • Biochemical Role: This compound plays a significant role in various biological processes, contributing to the complexity of fatty acid metabolism.
  • Surfactant Properties: Ethyl icosanoate exhibits surfactant characteristics, making it valuable in formulations that require emulsification, such as cosmetics and personal care products.
  • Research Potential: Ongoing studies are examining the potential of ethyl icosanoate in drug delivery systems, highlighting its promising role in medicinal chemistry.

In the world of chemistry, compounds like ethyl icosanoate exemplify the interplay between nature and synthetic methodologies, illustrating how naturally occurring substances can inspire innovations in various industries. As one chemist eloquently stated, "The beauty of chemistry lies in its ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary."

Overall, ethyl icosanoate reveals layers of complexity and versatility, making it an essential subject of interest for chemists and industry professionals alike.

Synonyms
Ethyl arachidate
Ethyl icosanoate
Eicosanoic acid, ethyl ester
ETHYL EICOSANOATE
Ethyl Arachate
Arachidic acid, ethyl ester
UNII-KKI20ZX76X
KKI20ZX76X
CHEBI:84859
DTXSID50171335
Ethyl arachidic acid
Ethyl eicosanoic acid
Arachidate, ethyl ester
Eicosanoate, ethyl ester
DTXCID7093826
YBKSMWBLSBAFBQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N
18281-05-5
Arachidic acid ethyl ester
MFCD00056233
EPA 90E; Incromega E 7010
Ethylicosanoate
Icosanoic Acid Ethyl Ester
Ethyl arachidate, >=99%
orb2664693
QSPL 091
SCHEMBL5204092
SCHEMBL8896528
SCHEMBL8896539
AKOS015903273
CS-W013919
HY-W013203
AS-59395
SY052934
DB-044475
A0899
D82078
Q27158128