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Potassium phenylacetate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C8H7KO2
CAS number
2211-46-5
IUPAC name
potassium;2-phenylacetate
State
State

At room temperature, potassium phenylacetate is a solid. It is stable under ordinary conditions of use and storage.

Melting point (Celsius)
127.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
400.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
724.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
997.15
General information
Molecular weight
178.22g/mol
Molar mass
178.2170g/mol
Density
1.4370g/cm3
Appearence

Potassium phenylacetate is a white crystalline powder. It is often found in laboratory settings and has a slight, pleasant odor similar to that of phenylacetic acid.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium 2-Phenylacetate (C8H7KO2)

Potassium 2-phenylacetate, also known as its chemical structure with the formula C8H7KO2, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that are worth noting:

  • Soluble in Water: Potassium 2-phenylacetate is generally considered to be highly soluble in water. This solubility is attributed to the polar nature of the acetate ion, which readily interacts with water molecules.
  • Effects of Temperature: Its solubility may increase with a rise in temperature, a common phenomenon observed in many ionic compounds.
  • Organic Solvents: In contrast, its solubility in organic solvents can vary. While some polar organic solvents may dissolve it, non-polar solvents often exhibit poor solubility.

This solubility behavior makes potassium 2-phenylacetate a versatile compound in various applications, particularly in biochemical settings where water solubility facilitates interaction with biological molecules. As a general rule, the presence of potassium and the acetate group enhances the solubility profile in aqueous environments, making it a valuable compound in synthetic and medicinal chemistry.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Potassium 2-Phenylacetate

Potassium 2-phenylacetate is a fascinating compound that plays an important role in various applications due to its unique properties. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Biological Significance: This compound serves as a source of potassium, an essential nutrient for both plants and animals, facilitating numerous biochemical reactions.
  • Chemical Versatility: Potassium 2-phenylacetate can act as a buffering agent and is useful in organic synthesis, making it valuable in laboratories.
  • Pharmaceutical Applications: It has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties and may be used in the formulation of certain medications.
  • Flavor and Fragrance: The 2-phenylacetate part of the compound is known for its sweet floral aroma, often used in the food and fragrance industries.
  • Environmental Impact: As a biodegradable compound, it is considered more environmentally friendly than some alternatives, reducing ecological harm.

In essence, potassium 2-phenylacetate embodies a perfect blend of nutritional value and chemical utility. Its presence in various fields—from agriculture to pharmaceuticals—highlights the essential roles that such compounds can play in our daily lives. The quote from Antoine Lavoisier, "Nothing is lost, nothing is created, everything is transformed," resonates well with our understanding of potassium 2-phenylacetate, showcasing how chemical transformation is crucial for sustaining life and innovation.