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Hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
C4H11NO
CAS number
1184-78-5
IUPAC name
hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium chloride is typically found as a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
252.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
525.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
311.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
584.65
General information
Molecular weight
109.16g/mol
Molar mass
109.1550g/mol
Density
1.0140g/cm3
Appearence

Hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium chloride typically appears as a white, crystalline solid. It is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium

Hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium, a quaternary ammonium compound, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics in various solvents. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Due to the presence of multiple polar groups, hydroxy and trimethyl, this compound is generally soluble in water. The quaternary ammonium structure enhances its ability to interact with water molecules through hydrogen bonding.
  • Organic Solvents: Hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium tends to be less soluble in non-polar organic solvents. This is largely due to the hydrophilic nature of the molecule, which favors interactions with polar solvents.
  • Temperature Dependence: Its solubility can vary with temperature; generally, higher temperatures may increase solubility in certain solvents due to increased molecular motion.
  • Influence of Ionic Strength: In solutions with varying ionic strengths, solubility behavior may change due to ion interaction, which can either promote or hinder solubility.

In conclusion, the solubility of hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium appears predominantly favorable in polar solvents like water, thanks to its ionic and polar features. As with many compounds, understanding the specific conditions can greatly influence its solubility profile.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium

Hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium is a fascinating compound that showcases the intricate nature of quaternary ammonium compounds. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Quaternary Ammonium Structure: This compound belongs to a class of compounds known as quaternary ammonium compounds, which are characterized by a central nitrogen atom bonded to four organic groups. This unique structure enables a variety of chemical behaviors and applications.
  • Applications in Industry: Hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium is often utilized in formulations for personal care products, such as conditioners and moisturizers. Its cationic nature aids in hair conditioning and provides antimicrobial properties.
  • Biocidal Properties: As a quaternary ammonium compound, it exhibits notable antimicrobial and biocidal properties. These characteristics make it suitable for use in disinfectants and antiseptics, playing a crucial role in hygiene and sanitation.
  • Interactions with Biological Systems: This compound’s ability to interact with biological membranes can influence cellular processes. Its role in biochemistry and pharmacology is an area of active research, particularly in understanding its effects on cell signaling.
  • Environmental Considerations: While it possesses beneficial traits, like antimicrobial activity, the environmental impact of quaternary ammonium compounds is also a subject of study due to concerns about toxicity and persistence in ecosystems.

In summary, hydroxymethyl(trimethyl)ammonium exemplifies the complex interplay between structure and function in chemistry. It not only serves various practical applications but also poses questions that challenge scientists to explore its broad-ranging impacts on health and environment.

Synonyms
SCHEMBL988712
SCHEMBL27813465
1-Hydroxy-N,N,N-trimethylmethanaminium
29124-45-6