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Lithium benzoate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C7H5LiO2
CAS number
553-54-8
IUPAC name
lithium;benzoate
State
State

At room temperature, lithium benzoate is found as a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
293.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
566.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
128.11g/mol
Molar mass
128.1130g/mol
Density
1.0305g/cm3
Appearence

Lithium benzoate typically appears as a white crystalline solid. It is odorless and can absorb moisture from the environment.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Lithium Benzoate

Lithium benzoate, known by its chemical formula LiC7H5O2, presents interesting characteristics when it comes to solubility. This compound exhibits moderate solubility in various solvents, which can be influenced by several factors:

  • Water Solubility: Lithium benzoate is generally soluble in water, making it a suitable candidate for applications in aqueous solutions.
  • Organic Solvents: It also shows solubility in some organic solvents, enhancing its versatility in diverse chemical processes.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of lithium benzoate can increase with temperature, a common phenomenon observed in many ionic compounds.

Commonly, the solubility is reported with the following considerations:

  • pH Sensitivity: The solubility can fluctuate based on the pH level of the solution, which may affect the ionization of the benzoate ion.
  • Concentration: In more concentrated solutions, the solubility limit might be reached, leading to precipitation.

In summary, lithium benzoate's solubility is a pivotal property that makes it valuable in various chemical and pharmaceutical applications, and understanding its behavior in different solvents can significantly influence its use.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Lithium Benzoate

Lithium benzoate, a fascinating organic compound, has garnered significant attention in both medicinal and chemical research fields. This compound showcases a unique interplay between lithium, a lightweight metal known for its mental health applications, and benzoic acid, a simple aromatic carboxylic acid.

Key Highlights

  • Medicinal Uses: Lithium benzoate has been explored for its potential in treating mood stabilizers. Its lithium component can aid in the management of bipolar disorder, alongside its partner compound.
  • Antimicrobial Properties: Research indicates that lithium benzoate may exhibit some antimicrobial activity. This opens avenues for further study into its potential applications in treating infections.
  • Food Industry: Its unique properties have also led to its evaluation as a food preservative, where benzoate derivatives traditionally serve this role.
  • Interesting Chemistry: The salt formation between lithium and benzoic acid highlights essential acid-base reactions. This aspect of lithium benzoate's chemistry makes it a great example for students studying chemical bonding.

As a student of chemistry, understanding the role of lithium benzoate helps in comprehending how differing elements can combine to form compounds that possess varied and valuable properties. It serves as a reminder of the intricate connections in the chemical world, where even simple compounds can lead to significant implications in health and industrial applications.

"Science knows no boundaries; it is limited only by our curiosity and understanding." This sentiment encapsulates the spirit behind studying compounds like lithium benzoate, encouraging further exploration into their properties and potential uses.