Skip to main content

Hydroperoxymethane

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
CH4O2
CAS number
3031-73-0
IUPAC name
hydroperoxymethane
State
State

Hydroperoxymethane, commonly known as methyl hydroperoxide, is typically in a liquid state at room temperature but exists as a vapor as well due to its high volatility.

Melting point (Celsius)
-87.70
Melting point (Kelvin)
185.45
Boiling point (Celsius)
99.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
372.65
General information
Molecular weight
48.04g/mol
Molar mass
48.0410g/mol
Density
1.2000g/cm3
Appearence

Hydroperoxymethane is a colorless, highly volatile liquid with a pungent smell. It resembles organic peroxides in its potential as an explosive compound when pure.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Hydroperoxymethane

Hydroperoxymethane, with the chemical formula CH4O2, exhibits intriguing solubility characteristics. Being a peroxide compound, its solubility is influenced by factors such as polarity and hydrogen bonding. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Highly Polar: The presence of the hydroperoxy group (-OOH) increases the polarity of hydroperoxymethane, enhancing its solubility in polar solvents like water.
  • Water Soluble: Hydroperoxymethane is typically soluble in water due to the ability of water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with the hydroperoxy group.
  • Organics Compatibility: While it has good solubility in polar solvents, its solubility in non-polar organic solvents is limited. This is primarily due to the disparity in polarity.
  • Temperature Effects: The solubility of hydroperoxymethane may vary with temperature; generally, an increase in temperature can enhance solubility in polar solvents.

In conclusion, hydroperoxymethane demonstrates significant solubility in water while being less compatible with non-polar solvents. Its utility in various chemical reactions is often enhanced by its solubility profile, making it an important compound in both laboratory and industrial applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Hydroperoxymethane

Hydroperoxymethane, also known as methanol hydroperoxide, is a relatively lesser-known but fascinating compound in the field of chemistry. Here are some intriguing facts about this compound:

  • Unique Structure: Hydroperoxymethane features a hydroperoxide functional group (-O-OH) attached to a methane backbone, making it an interesting dichotomy of simplicity and reactivity.
  • Explosive Potential: Due to the presence of the hydroperoxide group, hydroperoxymethane can be quite unstable and may decompose explosively under certain conditions.
  • Uses in Industry: It is utilized as an oxidizing agent in various chemical reactions, particularly in the production of organic peroxides and as a precursor in polymer synthesis.
  • Research Applications: Scientists study hydroperoxymethane for its role in atmospheric chemistry, particularly concerning its effects on pollution and as an oxidant in biochemical processes.
  • Toxicity and Safety: While interesting, hydroperoxymethane is considered hazardous and must be handled with care in laboratory settings due to its potential health risks.

In summary, hydroperoxymethane stands out as a compound of both scientific intrigue and practical application. Its unique characteristics make it a subject of ongoing research, illustrating the complexity and versatility of organic chemistry.

Synonyms
Methyl hydroperoxide
3031-73-0
CCRIS 4486
DTXSID10184401
DTXCID80106892
hydroperoxymethane
CH3OOH
methanol oxide
Methyldioxidanyl
Hydroperoxide, methyl
DTXSID10944007