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Methyl Ricinoleate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C21H38O4
CAS number
141-24-2
IUPAC name
methyl 12-acetoxyoctadec-9-enoate
State
State

At room temperature, methyl ricinoleate is typically in a liquid state.

Melting point (Celsius)
-3.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
270.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
238.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
511.15
General information
Molecular weight
326.54g/mol
Molar mass
326.4960g/mol
Density
0.8874g/cm3
Appearence

Methyl ricinoleate is a clear, viscous liquid. It typically appears colorless or pale yellow, with a faint, characteristic odor.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Methyl 12-Acetoxyoctadec-9-enoate

Methyl 12-acetoxyoctadec-9-enoate is an interesting compound with unique solubility characteristics, primarily influenced by its molecular structure. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Polarity: The presence of polar functional groups, such as the ester and acetoxy moieties, enhances its solubility in polar solvents like water.
  • Hydrophobic Chain: The long hydrocarbon chain (C18) contributes to a higher degree of hydrophobic character, making it more soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol or methanol.
  • Temperature Effects: Like many esters, solubility can increase with temperature, allowing for better dispersion in solvents at elevated temperatures.
  • pH Dependency: The solubility of methyl 12-acetoxyoctadec-9-enoate may also vary with the pH of the solvent, influencing how fully it can dissolve.

In summary, while methyl 12-acetoxyoctadec-9-enoate exhibits good solubility in a variety of solvents, specifically those that are polar, its longer hydrocarbon chain limits its solubility in water compared to compounds with shorter chains. Thus, it is essential to consider both its hydrophilic and hydrophobic characteristics when predicting its behavior in different environments.

Interesting facts

Methyl 12-Acetoxyoctadec-9-enoate: An In-Depth Look

Methyl 12-acetoxyoctadec-9-enoate is a fascinating ester that finds its place in various fields of chemistry and biochemistry. Here are some captivating insights into this compound:

  • Biological Significance: This compound is often recognized for its role in lipid metabolism, particularly in relation to fatty acids. The unsaturated chain contributes to the structural diversity of lipids.
  • Source: Methyl 12-acetoxyoctadec-9-enoate may be derived from natural sources such as plant oils, indicating its potential applications in natural products chemistry.
  • Applications in Synthesis: This ester is valuable in synthetic chemistry for creating more complex molecules. Its *reactive acetoxy group* can undergo various chemical reactions, including hydrolysis and trans-esterification, making it a versatile building block in organic synthesis.
  • Study of Lipid Structures: The compound can be used as a model to study the properties of unsaturated fatty acid esters, particularly their interaction with biological membranes.
  • Research Implications: Understanding methyl 12-acetoxyoctadec-9-enoate can provide insights into metabolic processes and could have implications in developing nutritional supplements or pharmaceuticals that target lipid metabolism.

As a notable example of a fatty acid derivative, methyl 12-acetoxyoctadec-9-enoate symbolizes the intricate relationship between structure and function in biochemistry. The study of compounds like this one will continue to pave the way for new advancements in both chemical and biological research.

Synonyms
methyl 12-(acetyloxy)octadec-9-enoate
Methyl acetyl ricinoleate
140-03-4
DTXSID40859271
NS00013849