Skip to main content

Cerotic acid

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C26H52O2
CAS number
506-46-7
IUPAC name
hexacosanoic acid
State
State

Cerotic acid is a solid at room temperature. It is part of the class of long-chain saturated fatty acids, which typically have melting points above room temperature, contributing to its solid state.

Melting point (Celsius)
88.40
Melting point (Kelvin)
361.55
Boiling point (Celsius)
431.20
Boiling point (Kelvin)
704.35
General information
Molecular weight
396.72g/mol
Molar mass
396.7240g/mol
Density
0.8240g/cm3
Appearence

Cerotic acid appears as a white, waxy solid. It is typically odorless and is one of the saturated fatty acids found in waxes. It has a pearlescent sheen and can form flakes or powder.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Hexacosanoic Acid

Hexacosanoic acid, also known as hexacosanoic acid or C26H52O2, exhibits unique solubility characteristics that stem from its long hydrocarbon chain. Understanding its solubility is important for various applications, including its use in industrial processes and synthesis.


General Solubility Behavior

Due to its substantial non-polar hydrocarbon chain, hexacosanoic acid is primarily:

  • Insoluble in water: The long carbon chain results in poor interactions with water molecules, leading to minimal solubility.
  • Sparingly soluble in organic solvents: It demonstrates better solubility in non-polar solvents such as hexane or benzene.

Factors Affecting Solubility

The solubility of hexacosanoic acid can be influenced by several factors:

  • Temperature: Increasing temperature can often enhance the solubility in organic solvents.
  • Chain length: Longer fatty acids tend to decrease solubility in polar solvents due to their hydrophobic nature.
  • Presence of functional groups: Modifications to the molecule, such as the introduction of polar functional groups, can enhance its solubility profile.

In summary, while hexacosanoic acid shows a marked insolubility in water, its behavior in organic solvents is more favorable, making it versatile in various chemical contexts. Understanding these solubility parameters is crucial for its practical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Hexacosanoic Acid

Hexacosanoic acid, also known as hexacosanoate, is a fascinating fatty acid that belongs to the group of long-chain saturated fatty acids. Here are some captivating insights into this compound:

  • Natural Occurrence: Hexacosanoic acid is found in nature, predominantly in the form of waxes, especially in the cuticular wax of plants. These waxes play a crucial role in preventing water loss and protecting against environmental stress.
  • Industrial Applications: Due to its long carbon chain, hexacosanoic acid is utilized in various industries, including:
    • Production of soaps and detergents
    • Cosmetics and personal care products
    • Lubricants and plasticizers
  • Biochemical Relevance: This fatty acid may also have implications in biochemistry and nutrition. Research indicates that long-chain fatty acids can contribute to various metabolic processes and are important for cellular functions.
  • Potential Health Benefits: Some studies suggest that fatty acids like hexacosanoic acid might play a role in reducing inflammation and supporting heart health. The ongoing exploration of these benefits makes it a subject of interest in nutritional science.

In conclusion, hexacosanoic acid encapsulates a variety of intriguing aspects ranging from its biological significance to its diverse applications in industry. Its role in nature and potential health benefits highlight the importance of this compound in various fields of study.

Synonyms
HEXACOSANOIC ACID
506-46-7
Cerotic acid
Ceratinic acid
Ceric acid
Cerinic acid
Hexacosanic acid
Cerylic acid
n-Hexacosanoic acid
Cerotinic acid
Hexacosansaeure
hexacosoic acid
hexaeicosanoic acid
D42CQN6P36
CHEBI:31009
C26:0
NSC 4205
NSC-4205
EINECS 208-040-2
hexacosanoate (n-C26:0)
CH3-[CH2]24-COOH
DTXSID7075050
n-C26:0
CH3-(CH2)24-COOH
Very Long Chain Fatty Acid
CEROTIC ACID [INCI]
C26:0 (VLCFA)
DTXCID2040862
208-040-2
MFCD00002811
NSC4205
cerate
ceratinate
cerinate
n-hexacosanoate
FA 26:0
FA(26:0)
HEXACOSANOICACID
UNII-D42CQN6P36
Ceratinic acid; Ceric acid
Cerotic acid (6CI,7CI)
SCHEMBL134632
CHEMBL464787
Hexacosanoic acid (8CI,9CI)
LMFA01010026
MSK159770
Hexacosanoic acid, analytical standard
AKOS015892942
Cerotic acid;Ceratinic acid;Ceric acid
FH23777
AS-47827
DB-008615
Hexacosanoic acid, >=95% (capillary GC)
HY-113301
CS-0059548
Hexacosanoic acid, technical, >=90% (GC)
NS00013439
C21931
F16302
Q903348
Hexacosanoic acid 100 microg/mL in Dichloromethane
D1350C66-1C64-4B94-A33A-412D70EF327D