Skip to main content

4-Octanone

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C8H16O
CAS number
589-63-9
IUPAC name
octan-4-one
State
State

At room temperature, 4-octanone is in a liquid state. Its volatility makes it important to handle with care to avoid inhalation of fumes.

Melting point (Celsius)
-39.30
Melting point (Kelvin)
233.85
Boiling point (Celsius)
174.20
Boiling point (Kelvin)
447.35
General information
Molecular weight
128.21g/mol
Molar mass
128.2120g/mol
Density
0.8286g/cm3
Appearence

4-Octanone, also known as octan-4-one, is a colorless liquid with a characteristic ketone smell. It is a medium-chain ketone which is less polar compared to its smaller counterparts, and it readily mixes with organic solvents.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Octan-4-one

Octan-4-one, with the chemical formula C8H16O, is a ketone that exhibits unique solubility characteristics.

Generally, the solubility of a compound is influenced by several factors, including:

  • Polarity: Octan-4-one is a moderately polar molecule due to the carbonyl (C=O) group.
  • Hydrophobic vs. Hydrophilic: With an eight-carbon chain, the hydrophobic (water-repelling) nature of the long carbon chain is significant.
  • Presence of functional groups: The carbonyl group introduces some level of solubility in polar solvents.

As a result:

  • Octan-4-one is soluble in organic solvents such as alcohols and ethers.
  • It has limited solubility in water, primarily due to its hydrophobic carbon chain.

In summary, one might describe Octan-4-one's solubility as a tale of two worlds: it thrives in non-polar and slightly polar environments yet struggles in polar aqueous solutions. This dual nature highlights the fascinating interplay between structure and solubility in organic compounds.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Octan-4-one

Octan-4-one, also known as 4-octanone, is a fascinating organic compound belonging to the ketone family. Its molecular structure and unique properties make it a compound of interest in both industrial and laboratory settings.

Key Characteristics and Applications

  • Flavoring Agent: Octan-4-one is utilized in the food industry for its pleasant aroma, contributing to the flavor profiles of various products.
  • Solvent Properties: Due to its ketonic nature, it is an effective solvent for a wide range of organic compounds, making it invaluable in chemical synthesis and laboratory applications.
  • Fragrance Industry: This compound is also employed in the fragrance industry for creating scents that can mimic the smell of natural materials.
  • Research Interest: Scientists study octan-4-one to better understand ketone chemistry, which can lead to the development of new, more efficient synthetic methods.

Health and Safety Considerations

While octan-4-one is useful, it is important to handle it with care due to potential health risks. Proper safety measures should always be taken, including:

  • Wearing protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles.
  • Working in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of fumes.
  • Understanding the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for detailed health and safety guidelines.

Fun Fact

As a member of the family of ketones, octan-4-one displays some fascinating chemical behavior due to the presence of a carbonyl group. Ketones are known for their reactivity in condensation and substitution reactions, paving the way for interesting applications in organic chemistry.

In conclusion, octan-4-one's versatility as a flavoring agent, solvent, and fragrance compound highlights its significance in both chemical research and industry. Understanding such compounds can lead to exciting developments across various domains!

Synonyms
4-OCTANONE
Octan-4-one
EINECS 209-655-9
DTXSID40207637
NSC 43245
Octan4one
nButylnpropylketone
nButylnpropyl ketone
DTXCID90130128
209-655-9
589-63-9
Butyl propyl ketone
Propyl n-butyl ketone
propyl butyl ketone
MFCD00027241
n-C4H9COCH2CH2CH3
SCHEMBL109288
NSC43245
NSC-43245
AKOS009159007
DB-053297
NS00034050
O0218
EN300-99464
T72667
Q20054538