Skip to main content

Methyl pentanoate

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C6H12O2
CAS number
105-53-3
IUPAC name
methyl pentanoate
State
State

Methyl pentanoate is typically in a liquid state at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
-81.30
Melting point (Kelvin)
191.85
Boiling point (Celsius)
128.70
Boiling point (Kelvin)
401.85
General information
Molecular weight
116.16g/mol
Molar mass
116.1580g/mol
Density
0.8779g/cm3
Appearence

Methyl pentanoate is a colorless liquid with a fruity odor similar to apple or pineapple. It is not highly viscous and is generally used in the flavor and fragrance industry for its pleasant scent.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Methyl Pentanoate

Methyl pentanoate, a carboxylic ester, exhibits some distinct solubility characteristics that are noteworthy in both organic chemistry and industrial applications.

Solubility in Various Solvents

Methyl pentanoate is generally:

  • Soluble in organic solvents: It readily dissolves in non-polar or slightly polar organic solvents such as hexane, dichloromethane, and ethanol.
  • Insoluble in water: Due to its relatively long carbon chain and low polarity, methyl pentanoate does not dissolve effectively in water.

Factors Affecting Solubility

The solubility of methyl pentanoate can be influenced by:

  • Temperature: As the temperature increases, solubility in organic solvents often improves.
  • Chain Length: The hydrophobic nature increases with longer carbon chains, limiting water solubility.
  • Presence of Functional Groups: The ester functionality allows for interactions with polar solvents compared to hydrocarbons.

In summary, while methyl pentanoate showcases a strong affinity for non-polar solvents, it remains largely insoluble in water, showcasing the typical behavior of esters with longer carbon chains. This characteristic is essential for its applications in the flavor and fragrance industries, where solubility plays a crucial role in formulation.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Methyl Pentanoate

Methyl pentanoate, also known as methyl valerate, is an intriguing ester that belongs to the family of carboxylic acid derivatives. Here are some captivating aspects of this compound:

  • Natural Occurrence: This compound is found in various natural sources, including the aroma of certain fruits and the fragrance of flowers, making it a part of the delightful spectrum of natural scents.
  • Flavor and Fragrance: Methyl pentanoate is often used in the food and cosmetics industries. Its fruity notes contribute to flavoring agents and fragrances, giving a sweet and pleasant aroma.
  • Synthesis: It can be synthesized through the esterification process, typically involving the reaction between pentanoic acid and methanol, which results in the formation of this ester and water.
  • Applications in Research: This compound is also notable in chemical research, particularly in studies focusing on ester reactivity and the exploration of flavor compounds.
  • Biodegradability: Methyl pentanoate is known for being biodegradable, which is an essential factor in its use in eco-friendly products and formulations.

As a compound, methyl pentanoate exemplifies the diverse nature of esters, showcasing their utility not just in chemistry but also in our daily lives through flavor and aroma enhancement. The balance between functionality and sensory appeal makes it a valuable compound in both scientific and commercial arenas.

Synonyms
METHYL VALERATE
Methyl pentanoate
624-24-8
Valeric acid, methyl ester
Pentanoic acid, methyl ester
Methyl valerianate
Methyl n-valerate
FEMA No. 2752
ZW21JJJ9VN
n-Valeric acid methyl ester
EINECS 210-838-0
BRN 1741905
METHYL VALERATE [FCC]
METHYL VALERATE [FHFI]
DTXSID9060784
METHYL VALERATE [WHO-DD]
4-02-00-00871 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
DTXCID1043332
210-838-0
inchi=1/c6h12o2/c1-3-4-5-6(7)8-2/h3-5h2,1-2h
Pentanoic acid methyl ester
VALERIC ACID METHYL ESTER
MFCD00009478
Methyl ester of pentanoic acid
UNII-ZW21JJJ9VN
Methyl valerate, 99%
Valeric acid-methyl ester
CH3(CH2)3COOCH3
SCHEMBL51016
Methyl valerate, >=99%, FG
FEMA 2752
Methyl valerate, analytical standard
LMFA07010966
AKOS008907316
FV139050
NS00013009
V0005
n-Valeric acid methyl ester [standard material]
Q388740
0A8C9E39-6D10-4689-A5D6-E822CE8E0F98