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Pentacosane

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Identification
Molecular formula
C25H52
CAS number
629-99-2
IUPAC name
pentacosane
State
State

At room temperature, pentacosane is a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
54.40
Melting point (Kelvin)
327.55
Boiling point (Celsius)
420.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
693.15
General information
Molecular weight
352.69g/mol
Molar mass
352.6880g/mol
Density
0.8100g/cm3
Appearence

Pentacosane appears as a white to colorless waxy solid.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Pentacosane

Pentacosane, with the chemical formula C25H52, is a long-chain alkane that showcases unique solubility characteristics typical of hydrocarbons. As a non-polar molecule, pentacosane demonstrates the principle of "like dissolves like", leading to the following key points regarding its solubility:

  • Insoluble in Water: Pentacosane is insoluble in water due to its non-polar nature, which prevents it from forming hydrogen bonds with water molecules.
  • Soluble in Organic Solvents: It readily dissolves in organic solvents like hexane, benzene, and other non-polar solvents, thanks to similar molecular interactions.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of pentacosane in organic solvents can increase with temperature, as the kinetic energy helps overcome intermolecular forces.
  • Hydrophobic Effects: Being hydrophobic, pentacosane tends to aggregate in aqueous environments, further confirming its poor solubility in water.

In conclusion, the solubility behavior of pentacosane epitomizes the characteristics of long-chain hydrocarbons, making it primarily suitable for non-polar solvent systems while being virtually insoluble in polar media like water.

Interesting facts

Pentacosane: An Overview

Pentacosane, a fascinating straight-chain alkane, is composed of a total of 25 carbon atoms with the chemical formula C25H52. This organic compound plays a significant role in both natural and industrial contexts.

Key Facts about Pentacosane

  • Natural Occurrence: Pentacosane is commonly found in various natural sources, including plant waxes, which are essential for protecting leaves and fruits from environmental stress.
  • Biochemical Role: The compound acts as a hydrocarbon component in the formation of cuticular waxes, providing a barrier that reduces water loss in plants.
  • Industrial Applications: In the realm of industrial chemistry, pentacosane finds uses as a lubricant and in the formulation of different types of waxes, enhancing product performance and longevity.
  • Phase Change Materials: Pentacosane exhibits phase change properties, making it an interesting candidate for thermal energy storage systems due to its ability to absorb and release heat slowly.
  • Research Interest: Scientists explore pentacosane for its potential applications in nanotechnology, where it can be utilized to develop various materials with specific properties.

Fun Fact

Did you know? The name pentacosane is derived from the Greek prefix "penta-" meaning five and the suffix "-cosane," which indicates its status as an alkane with a straight-chain structure. This reflects its composition of 25 carbon atoms, divided by the five units of five.

In summary, pentacosane is a simple yet intriguing compound with numerous applications and natural significance. Understanding such molecules broadens our knowledge of organic chemistry and its influence on various aspects of our environment and industry.

Synonyms
PENTACOSANE
n-Pentacosane
629-99-2
UNII-BON9H94Y8V
BON9H94Y8V
EINECS 211-123-6
NSC 158663
NSC-158663
AI3-36478
DTXSID2060882
CHEBI:32938
HSDB 8355
CH3-(CH2)23-CH3
CH3-[CH2]23-CH3
DTXCID7043584
211-123-6
MFCD00009353
Pentacosane, 99%
(2H52)Pentacosane
Pentacosane (Standard)
Pentacosane, analytical standard
HY-N7494R
AAA62999
HY-N7494
LMFA11000582
NSC158663
AKOS015843190
DA-69050
LS-15134
Pentacosane; NSC 158663; n-Pentacosane
DB-054365
CS-0130240
NS00010787
P0139
D91907
Q151007
2A4605C9-A088-458C-AD58-AA987FF6C408