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Cetyl alcohol

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Identification
Molecular formula
C16H34O
CAS number
629-62-9
IUPAC name
hexadecan-4-ol
State
State

At room temperature, cetyl alcohol is a solid with a waxy texture. It can be melted upon heating, turning into a clear, colorless liquid.

Melting point (Celsius)
49.30
Melting point (Kelvin)
322.40
Boiling point (Celsius)
344.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
617.00
General information
Molecular weight
242.46g/mol
Molar mass
242.4600g/mol
Density
0.8200g/cm3
Appearence

Cetyl alcohol is a white, waxy solid. It is typically supplied in the form of flakes or pellets or as a solid block. It has a glossy appearance and a smooth, slippery texture when melted.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Hexadecan-4-ol

Hexadecan-4-ol, with the chemical formula C16H34O, is a long-chain alcohol that exhibits specific solubility characteristics influenced by its molecular structure. Here's what you should know about its solubility:

  • Hydrophilic vs. Hydrophobic: Due to its long hydrocarbon tail (16 carbon atoms), hexadecan-4-ol tends to be more hydrophobic than hydrophilic, which generally leads to lower solubility in water.
  • Solvent Compatibility: This compound is expected to be soluble in non-polar organic solvents such as hexane, benzene, and chloroform, due to the similar non-polar nature of the solvents.
  • Water Solubility: In contrast, hexadecan-4-ol has very limited solubility in water; it may dissolve only in minimal amounts. The strong hydrogen-bonding capability of water cannot effectively interact with the overwhelmingly hydrophobic long carbon chain.
  • Applications and Implications: Understanding the solubility of hexadecan-4-ol is crucial for applications in industries such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, where solubility can significantly affect formulation and efficacy.

In summary, the solubility behavior of hexadecan-4-ol underscores the balance between hydrophobic characteristics and limited hydrophilic interactions, marking its significance in various practical applications. It serves as a reminder that "like dissolves like," guiding the selection of suitable solvents for its use.

Interesting facts

Fascinating Insights on Hexadecan-4-ol

Hexadecan-4-ol, a fascinating compound, belongs to the family of fatty alcohols. As a straight-chain alcohol, it boasts a variety of intriguing properties and applications that entice chemists and researchers alike. Here are some noteworthy points about this compound:

  • Structure and Functionality: Hexadecan-4-ol features a long hydrocarbon chain complemented by a hydroxyl (–OH) group, making it a primary alcohol. This structure not only influences its physical properties, but also its chemical reactivity, allowing for versatile applications in various industries.
  • Applications in Industry: This compound plays a crucial role in the manufacturing of surfactants, emulsifiers, and skin-conditioning agents. Its hydrophilic (water-attracting) –OH group works in synergy with its hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail, making it an excellent candidate for use in cosmetic formulations and personal care products.
  • Biological Significance: In the biological context, hexadecan-4-ol is significant for its potential role in lipid metabolism and cellular signaling. Researchers are investigating its relevance in various biochemical pathways, opening new avenues for understanding cellular functions.
  • Environmental Impact: As attention grows towards sustainability, the study of fatty alcohols like hexadecan-4-ol is critical. Its biodegradable properties make it an appealing alternative to traditional petrochemical-based compounds.
  • Future Research: Emerging studies suggest that understanding the mechanisms of hexadecan-4-ol can pave the way for creating novel materials with industrial, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications. Ongoing research aims to expand its utility and discover new beneficial characteristics.

In summary, hexadecan-4-ol is more than just a simple fatty alcohol; it is a compound that bridges various fields of study, highlighting the intersection of chemistry, biology, and environmental science. As research continues to develop, this compound may hold the key to innovative discoveries in multiple domains.

Synonyms
4-Hexadecanol
19781-43-2
DTXSID50275100
RefChem:293017
DTXCID20226548
JIMMILCKVYOFET-UHFFFAOYSA-N
hexadecan-4-ol
4-hydroxyhexadecane
SCHEMBL79484
SCHEMBL378816
SCHEMBL1543206
DTXSID70865486
CHEBI:197394
EINECS 249-583-5
AKOS012718077
NS00122530
G69827