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Icosane

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Identification
Molecular formula
C20H42
CAS number
112-95-8
IUPAC name
icosane
State
State

At room temperature, icosane is a solid. It falls into the category of long-chain alkanes, which often have higher melting points than many other hydrocarbons of similar size.

Melting point (Celsius)
37.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
310.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
343.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
616.15
General information
Molecular weight
282.55g/mol
Molar mass
282.5470g/mol
Density
0.7760g/cm3
Appearence

Icosane is a colorless solid characterized by a wax-like consistency. It is often encountered in its crystalline form and can feel slippery to the touch at room temperature.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Icosane

Icosane, with the chemical formula C20H42, is a straight-chain alkane known for its unique properties as a hydrocarbon. When discussing the solubility of icosane, it is important to highlight the following key points:

  • Insoluble in Water: Icosane is insoluble in water. This is primarily due to its nonpolar nature, which makes it unable to interact with polar water molecules.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: In contrast, icosane is soluble in a variety of nonpolar organic solvents such as hexane, benzene, and toluene. This solubility is typical of alkanes, which dissolve well in other nonpolar compounds.
  • Effects of Temperature: The solubility of icosane may increase slightly with temperature when mixed with nonpolar solvents. Generally, higher temperatures can lead to enhanced solubility due to increased kinetic energy.
    • Overall, icosane exemplifies the principle of "like dissolves like," where the solubility behavior is governed by the polarity of the molecules involved.

Understanding the solubility characteristics of icosane can aid in applications ranging from industrial processes to environmental science.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Icosane

Icosane, a fascinating organic compound, is one of the members of the alkane family. Its structure consists of a linear chain of 20 carbon atoms, making it a representative of the higher alkanes. Here are some captivating aspects of this compound:

  • Natural Occurrence: Icosane is found naturally in various sources, including beeswax and certain plant waxes, making it significant in the study of natural products.
  • Applications: This hydrocarbon has practical applications in the fields of manufacturing and chemical processing. Its unique properties make it suitable for use in products like lubricants and coatings.
  • Hydrophobic Nature: Icosane is non-polar and hydrophobic, which means it repels water. This characteristic is particularly interesting as it contributes to the behavior of organic compounds in biological systems and potential environmental implications.
  • Energy Source: As a hydrocarbon, icosane can serve as a fuel source, highlighting its relevance in energy discussions, especially with a focus on fossil fuel usage and sustainability.
  • Research Insights: Scientists study icosane extensively in both physical and theoretical chemistry. Its simplicity allows researchers to better understand the behaviors and properties of larger hydrocarbons.

In summary, icosane is not just a simple alkane; its role in nature, industry, and scientific research makes it a compound worthy of attention. As you delve deeper into organic chemistry, consider the implications of such hydrocarbons in both environmental and technological contexts.

Synonyms
EICOSANE
n-Eicosane
112-95-8
Icosane
n-icosane
CCRIS 663
octyldodecane
UNII-3AYA9KEC48
EINECS 204-018-1
3AYA9KEC48
MFCD00009344
NSC 62789
AI3-28404
PARAFOL 20Z
NSC-62789
DTXSID1025227
CHEBI:43619
HSDB 8350
EC 204-018-1
Eicosane, analytical standard
Nonadecane, methyl-
Eicosane; MPCM 37; NSC 62789; Parafol 20Z; n-Eicosane
Icosane #
DIDECYL
Eicosane, 99%
NCIOpen2_003284
DTXCID305227
QSPL 044
QSPL 050
QSPL 140
CH3-(CH2)18-CH3
NSC62789
LMFA11000571
AKOS015843175
HY-W094847
AS-56022
SY009966
DB-041142
CS-0146759
E0003
NS00010719
G77323
Q150925
C4A12DC5-1A2F-4399-88BF-8A6222A7DF7E
204-018-1
InChI=1/C20H42/c1-3-5-7-9-11-13-15-17-19-20-18-16-14-12-10-8-6-4-2/h3-20H2,1-2H