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Magnesium stearate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C36H70MgO4
CAS number
557-04-0
IUPAC name
magnesium;octadecanoate
State
State

At room temperature, magnesium stearate is found in a solid state, typically as a fine white powder. It is insoluble in water, which makes it particularly useful in various industrial applications.

Melting point (Celsius)
88.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
361.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
591.27g/mol
Molar mass
591.2730g/mol
Density
1.0260g/cm3
Appearence

Magnesium stearate appears as a fine, white powder. It is largely used as an anti-adherent in the manufacture of medical tablets, capsules, and powders. It feels greasy to the touch and is commonly used in cosmetics and food products as well.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Magnesium Octadecanoate

Magnesium octadecanoate, with the chemical formula Mg(C18H36O2), showcases interesting solubility characteristics that are important for various applications, particularly in the fields of materials science and pharmaceuticals.

When evaluating its solubility:

  • In Water: Magnesium octadecanoate is generally insoluble in water due to the large hydrophobic octadecanoate (or stearate) chains, which hinder interaction with polar water molecules.
  • In Organic Solvents: It exhibits greater solubility in non-polar organic solvents, such as hexane and benzene, where the hydrophobic regions can interact favorably with the solvent.
  • General Observation: The compound also has limited solubility in moderately polar solvents, indicating a strong preference for non-polar environments.

It is fascinating to note that the solubility of magnesium octadecanoate is influenced by various factors:

  • Temperature: As temperature increases, the solubility in organic solvents may also increase.
  • pH Levels: The solubility can be affected by the pH of the surrounding environment, which can alter the ionization states of the magnesium and octadecanoate ions.
  • Concentration: High concentrations of magnesium octadecanoate can lead to solubility limits, resulting in precipitate formation.

The unique solubility profile of magnesium octadecanoate makes it a versatile compound in various industrial and laboratory settings, allowing for tailored applications based on its solubility behavior.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Magnesium Octadecanoate

Magnesium octadecanoate is an intriguing compound that falls under the category of magnesium salts of fatty acids. Here are some fascinating insights into its properties and applications:

  • Origin: Magnesium octadecanoate is derived from octadecanoic acid, commonly known as stearic acid, which is a saturated fatty acid that can be found in various animal and plant fats.
  • Applications in Industry: This compound is primarily used as a lubricant in the production of plastics and as an anti-caking agent in powdered products.
  • Role in Biochemistry: Magnesium is an essential mineral in biological systems and plays a vital role in many enzymatic reactions. The presence of magnesium in octadecanoate enhances its potential applications in biochemistry.
  • Emulsifier Properties: Magnesium octadecanoate can also serve as an emulsifier, helping to stabilize mixtures of oil and water by promoting the dispersion of fat molecules.
  • Environmental Impact: When derived from natural sources, this compound may be more environmentally friendly than synthetic alternatives, aligning with the growing interest in sustainable chemistry.

As a compound that marries functionality with chemical stability, magnesium octadecanoate serves as a notable example of how chemistry intersects with various everyday applications. In the words of a renowned chemist, "The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science." This essence resonates in compounds like magnesium octadecanoate, inspiring further exploration in both industrial application and biochemistry.

Synonyms
MAGNESIUM STEARATE
557-04-0
Magnesium octadecanoate
Dibasic magnesium stearate
Octadecanoic acid, magnesium salt
Synpro 90
Petrac MG 20NF
Stearic acid, magnesium salt
NS-M (salt)
SM-P
Magnesium stearate g
Synpro Magnesium Stearate 90
HSDB 713
Magnesii stearas
Magnesium distearate, pure
EINECS 209-150-3
NP 1500
SM 1000
CHEBI:9254
AI3-01638
UNII-70097M6I30
70097M6I30
DTXSID2027208
MAGNESIUM STEARATE (II)
MAGNESIUM STEARATE [II]
DAYCLING
DTXCID307208
209-150-3
Magnesium distearate
magnesium(ii) stearate
magnesium dioctadecanoate
Octadecanoic acid, magnesium salt (2:1)
Magnesium stearate [JAN]
C36H70MgO4
Magnesium stearate [JAN:NF]
Magnesium stearate, tech
SCHEMBL935
Magnesium stearate (JP17/NF)
MAGNESIUM STEARATE [MI]
CHEMBL2106633
MAGNESIUM STEARATE [HSDB]
Stearic Acid Magnesium(II) Salt
MAGNESIUM STEARATE [VANDF]
HY-Y1054
MAGNESIUM STEARATE [WHO-DD]
AKOS015915201
DB14077
FM32331
MAGNESII STEARAS [WHO-IP LATIN]
DA-55176
CS-0016049
NS00080495
S0238
D02189
A830764
Q416713