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Heptadecane

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Identification
Molecular formula
C17H36
CAS number
629-78-7
IUPAC name
heptadecane
State
State

Heptadecane is typically in a liquid state at room temperature. However, it can solidify upon cooling a few degrees under room temperature due to its relatively low melting point.

Melting point (Celsius)
22.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
295.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
302.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
575.15
General information
Molecular weight
240.46g/mol
Molar mass
240.4570g/mol
Density
0.7770g/cm3
Appearence

Heptadecane appears as a colorless liquid with a faint, characteristic odor. It is essentially transparent and oily, not unlike many other hydrocarbon liquids.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Heptadecane

Heptadecane, with the chemical formula C17H36, is a long-chain alkane that exhibits unique solubility characteristics due to its hydrophobic nature. Being a saturated hydrocarbon, it is primarily nonpolar and insoluble in water.

Here are some key points about the solubility of heptadecane:

  • Insolubility in Water: Heptadecane does not dissolve in water, given its long hydrocarbon chain which effectively repels polar solvents.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: This compound is readily soluble in nonpolar organic solvents such as hexane, benzene, and toluene.
  • Temperature Impact: The solubility in organic solvents can increase with temperature, making heptadecane more soluble at elevated temperatures.
  • Hydrophobic Interactions: As a hydrophobic molecule, heptadecane tends to cluster with its own kind, leading to low interactions with polar and aqueous environments.

To summarize, heptadecane's solubility profile highlights its nature as a nonpolar alkane, rendering it insoluble in water but soluble in various organic solvents. This behavior is crucial to consider in applications where the interaction with other substances is significant.

Interesting facts

Fascinating Facts About Heptadecane

Heptadecane, an intriguing member of the alkane family, boasts a wealth of properties and applications that make it a compound of interest for chemists and researchers alike. Here are some captivating facts about this fascinating molecule:

  • Structure and Composition: Heptadecane is a straight-chain hydrocarbon consisting of 17 carbon atoms, making it part of the long-chain alkane category, characterized by its formula C17H36.
  • Natural Occurrence: This compound is commonly found in natural sources, such as certain types of plant waxes, and is also a component of some petroleum products, highlighting its importance in both natural and industrial contexts.
  • Phase Change Behaviour: Heptadecane exhibits interesting phase change properties, transitioning from solid to liquid at a certain temperature, which is of particular interest in the fields of materials science and chemometrics.
  • Uses in Industry: Due to its long carbon chain, heptadecane plays a role in the manufacturing of various lubricants and as a standard in the study of thermodynamic properties.
  • Biological Significance: Research has shown that heptadecane, by virtue of its structure, can influence biological systems, particularly in regards to membrane fluidity and cellular signaling.
  • Interesting Applications: It has found its way into the development of phase change materials (PCMs) that are used in energy storage and thermal management technologies.

As quoted by many chemists, “Every molecule tells a story.” The story of heptadecane is one of complexity and versatility, embodying both natural beauty and industrial utility. Whether in a laboratory setting or industrial application, the significance of heptadecane transcends its simple hydrocarbon label, inviting us to explore its myriad functions and effects.

Synonyms
HEPTADECANE
n-Heptadecane
Heptadekan
EINECS 211-108-4
Normal-heptadecane
NSC 172782
BRN 1738898
DTXSID7047061
CHEBI:16148
AI3-36898
NSC-172782
DTXCID5027061
HSDB 8347
CH3-[CH2]15-CH3
4-01-00-00548 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
CH3-(CH2)15-CH3
nHeptadecane
Heptadecane, n
inchi=1/c17h36/c1-3-5-7-9-11-13-15-17-16-14-12-10-8-6-4-2/h3-17h2,1-2h
ndjkxxjcmxvbjw-uhfffaoysa-n
629-78-7
MFCD00009002
H7C0J39XUM
Hexadecane, methyl-
Heptadecane, analytical standard
Heptadecane; NSC 172782; TS 7; n-Heptadecane
UNII-H7C0J39XUM
Heptadecane purum
PJ8
Heptadecane, 99%
n-Heptadecane (d36)
CHEMBL3185332
Tox21_302278
LMFA11000003
NSC172782
STL355860
AKOS000487450
HY-W131351
Heptadecane, purum, >=98.0% (GC)
NCGC00256101-01
AS-56326
CAS-629-78-7
DB-054356
CS-0197341
H0023
NS00012511
C01816
D97702
Q150888
43B472DE-3A6B-4855-8457-9D679B0D1C87