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Methyl isobutyrate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C5H10O2
CAS number
547-63-7
IUPAC name
methyl 2-methylpropanoate
State
State

At room temperature, methyl isobutyrate is a liquid. It has a relatively low viscosity and is soluble in organic solvents, but only slightly soluble in water.

Melting point (Celsius)
-92.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
180.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
92.30
Boiling point (Kelvin)
365.45
General information
Molecular weight
102.13g/mol
Molar mass
102.1320g/mol
Density
0.8665g/cm3
Appearence

Methyl isobutyrate is a clear, colorless liquid with a fruity odor. It is commonly used as a flavoring agent and in fragrance applications due to its pleasant smell, which resembles that of apples or bananas.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Methyl 2-methylpropanoate

Methyl 2-methylpropanoate, with the chemical formula C5H10O2, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that are essential for various applications in organic chemistry. As an ester, it showcases the following solubility traits:

  • Solvent Polarity: Methyl 2-methylpropanoate is primarily soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and ether due to its non-polar hydrocarbon chain.
  • Water Solubility: This compound has a low water solubility, making it hydrophobic. The presence of the ester functional group provides limited interaction with water molecules.
  • Temperature Influence: Solubility can increase with higher temperatures; thus, heating can help dissolve the compound in suitable organic solvents more effectively.
  • Mixture Behavior: When mixed with polar solvents, methyl 2-methylpropanoate may exhibit partial solubility depending on the solvent's properties and concentration.

To summarize, the solubility of methyl 2-methylpropanoate is heavily influenced by its molecular structure and the nature of the solvent. As a general rule of thumb, “like dissolves like”; therefore, it is most soluble in non-polar or mildly polar solvents but struggles to dissolve in highly polar environments such as water.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Methyl 2-Methylpropanoate

Methyl 2-methylpropanoate is an intriguing compound that falls under the category of esters. Esters are known for their pleasant and often fruity aromas, making them prominent in the food and fragrance industry. Here are some captivating aspects about this compound:

  • Fragrance and Flavor: Methyl 2-methylpropanoate possesses a sweet, fruity scent reminiscent of apples or berries, which is why it is frequently used in perfumery and flavorings. This characteristic makes it a popular choice for use in food additives and scented products.
  • Synthesis: The compound can be synthesized through the esterification process, which involves the reaction between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid. Understanding this process can provide insights into organic synthesis techniques that are fundamental in chemistry.
  • Applications: Beyond its aromatic properties, methyl 2-methylpropanoate is utilized in the production of various solvents and plastics. Its unique characteristics make it significant in industrial applications.
  • Chemical Versatility: As with many esters, methyl 2-methylpropanoate is reactive and can undergo hydrolysis, leading to the formation of acids and alcohols. This reactivity is crucial for chemical transformations in organic chemistry.
  • Taste Sensation: In food chemistry, this compound is studied not only for its aroma but also for its potential to enhance flavors, creating a multisensory experience in culinary applications.

Overall, methyl 2-methylpropanoate is more than just a simple compound; it plays a vital role in the chemical, food, and fragrance industries, proving the significance of esters in everyday applications. As a chemistry student, exploring the properties and reactions of such compounds can aid in a deeper understanding of organic chemistry and its practical implications.

Synonyms
METHYL ISOBUTYRATE
Methyl 2-methylpropanoate
Methyl 2-methylpropionate
Propanoic acid, 2-methyl-, methyl ester
Methyl isobutanoate
Isobutyric acid, methyl ester
Methyl isobutyrate (natural)
FEMA No. 2694
Methylester kyseliny isomaselne
NSC 126780
EINECS 208-929-5
UNII-EM286QL922
Methylester kyseliny isomaselne [Czech]
BRN 1740720
Methyl methylpropanoate
EM286QL922
NSC-126780
(CH3)2CHC(O)OCH3
METHYL ISOBUTYRATE [MI]
DTXSID5060275
METHYL ISOBUTYRATE [FCC]
CHEBI:73689
METHYL ISOBUTYRATE [FHFI]
DTXCID9041782
208-929-5
4-02-00-00846 (beilstein handbook reference)
bhiwkhzacmwkoj-uhfffaoysa-n
inchi=1/c5h10o2/c1-4(2)5(6)7-3/h4h,1-3h
547-63-7
106989-11-1
ISOBUTYRIC ACID METHYL ESTER
26161-42-2
2-methylpropanoic acid methyl ester
methylisobutyrate
MFCD00166383
MFCD00008914
MFCD00131929
methyl 2-methylproponate
Methyl isobutyrate, 99%
Isobutyric acid-methyl ester
SCHEMBL66536
Methyl isobutyrate, 99%, FG
WLN: 1Y1&VO1
FEMA 2694
Methyl isobutyrate, natural, 98%
CS-D1465
NSC126780
2-Methyl-propanoic acid, methyl ester
AKOS005259719
AT32202
BP-30192
BS-22318
I0106
M0088
NS00004519
NS00021206
EN300-49191
A830359
Q146123
Q27143856