Skip to main content

Methyl hexanoate

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C7H14O2
CAS number
106-70-7
IUPAC name
methyl hexanoate
State
State

At room temperature, methyl hexanoate is in a liquid state. It is volatile and can evaporate quickly, contributing to its use in flavoring and fragrance applications.

Melting point (Celsius)
-73.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
200.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
151.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
424.15
General information
Molecular weight
130.19g/mol
Molar mass
130.1850g/mol
Density
0.8702g/cm3
Appearence

Methyl hexanoate is a colorless liquid that has a fruity odor, often associated with the smell of pineapple. It is typically transparent, allowing light to pass through it without obstruction.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Methyl Hexanoate

Methyl hexanoate, with the chemical formula C7H14O2, is an ester that exhibits interesting solubility characteristics due to its chemical structure.

In terms of solubility:

  • Solvent Compatibility: Methyl hexanoate is known to be soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform.
  • Water Solubility: Due to its relatively moderate size and hydrophobic nature, methyl hexanoate has limited solubility in water. Its solubility is significantly lower than smaller esters.
  • Temperature Effects: Solubility can be influenced by temperature; generally, increased temperatures enhance solubility in organic solvents.

As a general rule, increasing molecular weight decreases solubility in water, while smaller molecules tend to be more soluble. This concept is illustrated by the findings that:

  • Higher carbon chain length leads to lower polarity.
  • Less polar compounds are less soluble in polar solvents like water.

In summary, while methyl hexanoate can easily dissolve in non-polar solvents, its solubility in water is relatively low, making it more suited for applications in the realm of organic chemistry and fragrance formulations.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Methyl Hexanoate

Methyl hexanoate is an ester that offers a delightful aroma and flavor profile, making it quite popular in the food and fragrance industries. Here are some fascinating aspects of this compound:

  • Source of Aroma: Methyl hexanoate is known for its fruity scent, often reminiscent of apples and pears. This makes it a sought-after ingredient in flavoring agents and perfumes.
  • Natural Occurrence: This compound can be found naturally in several fruits, contributing to their characteristic aromas and flavors. It is particularly abundant in pineapple and passion fruit.
  • Chemical Structure: Methyl hexanoate is formed through the esterification reaction between hexanoic acid and methanol. This type of reaction is a foundational concept in organic chemistry, illustrating the transformation of acids and alcohols into esters.
  • Applications: Beyond its use in food and fragrances, methyl hexanoate is also utilized in the cosmetic industry for its emollient properties. It plays a role in skin and hair care formulations.
  • Safety and Regulations: Methyl hexanoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in food at low concentrations, showcasing the importance of understanding chemical safety in the industry.

In summary, methyl hexanoate is not just a simple ester; it’s a compound that bridges chemistry with sensory experiences, elevating both culinary and aromatic delights. As one continues to explore the vast world of organic compounds, methyl hexanoate stands out as a prime example of how chemistry impacts our everyday lives.

Synonyms
METHYL HEXANOATE
Methyl caproate
106-70-7
Hexanoic acid, methyl ester
Hexanoic Acid Methyl Ester
Methyl hexoate
Methyl n-hexanoate
Methyl capronate
Methyl hexylate
Caproic acid methyl ester
Methyl n-hexoate
FEMA No. 2708
formyl hexanoate
Caproic acid, methyl ester
NSC 5023
n-Caproic acid methyl ester
EINECS 203-425-1
Methyl ester of hexanoic acid
UNII-246364VPJS
BRN 1744683
HEXANOIC ACID,METHYL ESTER
NSC-5023
C06 FAME
METHYL HEXANOATE [FCC]
METHYL HEXANOATE [FHFI]
DTXSID0047616
CHEBI:77322
WE(1:0/6:0)
METHYL CAPROATE [USP-RS]
EC 203-425-1
246364VPJS
MFCD00009510
Methyl-d3Hexanoate
METHYL CAPROATE (USP-RS)
Methyl caproate (natural)
Methyl Caproate; Methyl hexanoate; Hexanoic acid methyl ester
Methyl nhexanoate
Methyl hexanoate, 99%
hexanoic acid-methyl ester
SCHEMBL124681
METHYL CAPROATE [INCI]
DTXCID8027616
FEMA 2708
Methyl hexanoate, >=99%, FG
NSC5023
AAA10670
LMFA07010433
Methyl hexanoate, analytical standard
STL453686
AKOS000121260
HY-W539787
Methyl hexanoate, natural, >=99%, FG
LS-13339
H0111
NS00007593
S0304
EN300-15456
A801486
Q3135043
338DD8BE-299B-44EE-816C-16C9BDD20EC6
Hexanoic acid-methyl ester 1000 microg/mL in n-Hexane
Methyl hexanoate, certified reference material, TraceCERT(R)
Methyl caproate, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard
203-425-1