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Canthaxanthin

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Identification
Molecular formula
C40H52O2
CAS number
514-78-3
IUPAC name
methyl 10-(3a,6,6,9a-tetramethyl-2,7-dioxo-4,5,5a,8,9,9b-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]naphthalen-3-ylidene)-2,6-dimethyl-undeca-2,4,6,8-tetraenoate
State
State

Canthaxanthin is typically found in a solid state at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
210.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
483.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
259.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
532.00
General information
Molecular weight
564.87g/mol
Molar mass
564.8730g/mol
Density
1.5880g/cm3
Appearence

Canthaxanthin is a red-orange carotenoid pigment. In its raw form, it appears as a dark violet crystalline powder. It is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like acetone and chloroform.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Methyl 10-(3a,6,6,9a-tetramethyl-2,7-dioxo-4,5,5a,8,9,9b-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]naphthalen-3-ylidene)-2,6-dimethyl-undeca-2,4,6,8-tetraenoate (C40H52O2)

The solubility of methyl 10-(3a,6,6,9a-tetramethyl-2,7-dioxo-4,5,5a,8,9,9b-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]naphthalen-3-ylidene)-2,6-dimethyl-undeca-2,4,6,8-tetraenoate in various solvents can be characterized by several key points:

  • Polar Solvents: This compound is expected to have limited solubility in polar solvents such as water due to the large hydrophobic hydrocarbon portion of the molecule.
  • Non-Polar Solvents: Solubility is likely to be enhanced in non-polar solvents like hexane or toluene, which can stabilize the hydrophobic sections of the molecule.
  • Solvent Interaction: The presence of functional groups may provide some degree of interaction with polar solvents, but their overall impact may be minimal compared to the dominant hydrophobic characteristics.

It's important to consider the molecular framework when analyzing solubility. The extensive carbon chain and the complex structure suggest that:

  1. Higher molecular weight correlates with decreased solubility in water.
  2. Increased dispersive interactions in non-polar media may facilitate solubility.

Overall, if one seeks to utilize or study this compound, focusing on appropriate non-polar solvents will yield the best results for dissolution. Keep in mind that the solubility characteristics can vary with temperature and concentration, prompting further experimentation to determine exact solubility parameters.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Methyl 10-(3a,6,6,9a-tetramethyl-2,7-dioxo-4,5,5a,8,9,9b-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]naphthalen-3-ylidene)-2,6-dimethyl-undeca-2,4,6,8-tetraenoate

This complex organic compound, often a focal point of study due to its unique structure and properties, is a fascinating subject for both chemists and students alike. Here are some intriguing facts about this compound:

  • Structural Complexity: The compound features an intricate molecular architecture characterized by multiple rings and substituents that can influence its reactivity and interactions with other substances.
  • Potential Applications: Due to its unique dioxo functionality, this compound may have potential applications in pharmaceuticals or materials science, particularly in the development of novel drug candidates or advanced polymers.
  • Synthetic Challenge: The synthesis of compounds like methyl 10-(3a,6,6,9a-tetramethyl-2,7-dioxo-4,5,5a,8,9,9b-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]naphthalen-3-ylidene)-2,6-dimethyl-undeca-2,4,6,8-tetraenoate often requires sophisticated methodologies, making it a prime example of organic synthesis challenges.
  • Conjugated Systems: The presence of multiple double bonds in the tetraenoate component implies interesting optical properties, potentially making it useful in light-absorbing materials or dyes.
  • Historical Context: Understanding the synthesis and application of such compounds can also provide insight into the historical development of organic chemistry, from the explorations of natural products to modern synthetic techniques.

As noted by one researcher, "Compounds like this reveal not just the versatility of organic chemistry but also the beauty of molecular diversity and complexity." Emphasizing the endless possibilities in the world of chemistry makes the study of compounds like this one not only interesting but essential for scientific advancement.

In conclusion, methyl 10-(3a,6,6,9a-tetramethyl-2,7-dioxo-4,5,5a,8,9,9b-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]naphthalen-3-ylidene)-2,6-dimethyl-undeca-2,4,6,8-tetraenoate is a compound that represents the intersection of complexity, potential, and beauty within the realm of organic chemistry.