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Methyl formate

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Identification
Molecular formula
CH4O2
CAS number
107-31-3
IUPAC name
methyl formate
State
State

At room temperature, methyl formate is in a liquid state. However, given its high volatility and low boiling point, it readily vaporizes, especially at slightly elevated temperatures or minimal pressure changes.

Melting point (Celsius)
-99.80
Melting point (Kelvin)
173.40
Boiling point (Celsius)
32.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
305.00
General information
Molecular weight
60.05g/mol
Molar mass
60.0520g/mol
Density
0.9780g/cm3
Appearence

Methyl formate is a colorless liquid with a pleasant, ethereal odor. It is known to have a very low boiling point and is highly volatile, which contributes to its rapid evaporation at room temperature. The compound is clear and lacks any color or opacity, making it visually similar to water, though it is less viscous.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Methyl Formate

Methyl formate, with the chemical formula HCOOCH3, is a colorless liquid known for its distinctive fruity odor. Its solubility characteristics make it an interesting compound in various applications.

Key Solubility Attributes:

  • Solvent Compatibility: Methyl formate is highly soluble in polar solvents such as water, due to its ability to form hydrogen bonds.
  • Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Balance: As a formate ester, it exhibits moderate lipophilicity, allowing it to dissolve well in organic solvents like ether and alcohol.
  • Temperature Effects: Its solubility can vary with temperature, generally increasing in warmer conditions, which aids in dissolving more of the compound in a given solvent.

Generally, you can say that "Methyl formate is soluble in many solvents, with a notable preference for polar environments." This makes it a versatile agent in the synthesis of other compounds as well as in applications where its unique properties can be effectively utilized.

Keep in mind that while methyl formate is more soluble in water than many other organic compounds, it still exhibits certain limitations in solubility under specific conditions, making context and medium essential when working with this compound.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Methyl Formate

Methyl formate is an intriguing compound with a variety of applications in both industry and research. Here are some fascinating aspects of this chemical:

  • Natural Occurrence: Methyl formate is found in nature as an ester, produced during the fermentation process and also occurs in certain fruits. Its sweet, fruity aroma contributes to its appeal in various applications.
  • Uses in Industry: This compound is predominantly used as a solvent in the production of paints, coatings, and adhesives. Its low toxicity makes it a safer alternative to many traditional solvents.
  • Biochemical Relevance: Methyl formate plays a role in the synthesis of certain pharmaceuticals. As a reagent, it helps in producing various biologically significant compounds, showcasing its importance in medicinal chemistry.
  • Environmental Considerations: Methyl formate is noted for its potential as a green solvent due to its biodegradability and low environmental impact compared to other solvents.
  • Research Applications: In analytical chemistry, methyl formate is utilized as a derivatizing agent, enhancing the detection and analysis of various substances in complex mixtures.

As a versatile compound, methyl formate continues to capture the attention of researchers and professionals alike. Its balance of functionality and sustainability positions it as a valuable agent in numerous fields.

"Chemistry is the mother of all sciences, and compounds like methyl formate often represent the intersection of nature, industry, and innovation."

Synonyms
METHYL FORMATE
107-31-3
Formic acid, methyl ester
Methyl methanoate
Formic acid methyl ester
Methylformiat
Formiate de methyle
Methylformiaat
Mravencan methylnaty
Caswell No. 570
HCOOCH3
methanoic acid methyl ester
Methylester kyseliny mravenci
METHYLFORMATE
Metil (formiato di)
Methyle (formiate de)
CCRIS 6062
HSDB 232
UNII-1MPH591FTG
EINECS 203-481-7
1MPH591FTG
EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 053701
DTXSID5025609
CHEBI:77699
AI3-00408
HCO2CH3
DTXCID305609
R-611
EC 203-481-7
Methylformiaat [Dutch]
Methylformiat [German]
Mravencan methylnaty [Czech]
Formiate de methyle [French]
Metil (formiato di) [Italian]
Methyle (formiate de) [French]
MFCD00003291
UN1243
Methylester kyseliny mravenci [Czech]
Methyl ester of formic acid
Formic acid, methyl ester; Methanoic acid methyl ester; Methyl formate; Methyl methanoate; R 611
HCOOMe
MeOCHO
HCO2Me
Methyl formate, >=95%
carboxylic acid methyl ester
METHYL FORMATE [MI]
METHYL FORMATE [HSDB]
CHEMBL295026
CHEBI:25248
Methyl formate, anhydrous, 99%
Methyl formate, analytical standard
Tox21_300962
Methyl formate, reagent grade, 97%
STL453646
AKOS015892698
UN 1243
NCGC00248231-01
NCGC00254864-01
CAS-107-31-3
DB-000421
F0057
F0086
NS00010253
R 611
S0299
InChI=1/C2H4O2/c1-4-2-3/h2H,1H
Methyl formate, spectrophotometric grade, 99%
Methyl formate [UN1243] [Flammable liquid]
Q422779
Methyl formate, 97%, may cont. up to ca 3% methanol
203-481-7
USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 053701(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Pesticide Program's Chemical Ingredients Database on Methyl Formate (107-31-3). Available from, as of June 1, 2005: http://npirspublic.ceris.purdue.edu/ppis/)