Potassium 2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate

Identification

Molecular formula

C₄H₅KO₆

CAS number

617-48-1

IUPAC name

potassium;(2R,3R)-2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate

State

At room temperature, it is a solid. The compound, being a potassium salt, is stable and readily absorbs moisture when left in open air due to its deliquescent nature.

Melting point (Celsius)

78.00

Melting point (Kelvin)

351.15

Boiling point (Celsius)

227.00

Boiling point (Kelvin)

500.15

General information

Molecular weight

208.18g/mol

Molar mass

208.1750g/mol

Density

1.7300g/cm³

Appearence

Potassium 2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate typically appears as a white crystalline solid. It is highly water-soluble due to its hydrophilic nature and contains potassium ions that contribute to its ionic character.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium (2R,3R)-2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate

The solubility of potassium (2R,3R)-2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate in water is a vital factor to consider when investigating its applications and behavior in various environments. This compound, which incorporates a potassium ion, is generally expected to exhibit a degree of solubility due to the ionic nature of potassium salts. Here are some insights into its solubility:

Polar Nature: The presence of multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups in its structure enhances the compound's polar characteristics, likely contributing to its solubility in polar solvents like water.
Ionic Interaction: The potassium ion (K⁺) can interact favorably with water molecules, promoting dissolution.
Concentration Dependency: As with many compounds, solubility can be influenced by temperature and concentration, with higher temperatures generally increasing solubility.
Potential Uses: The solubility profile of this compound may facilitate its use in biological systems or pharmaceutical formulations where aqueous solubility is necessary for effective functioning.

In summary, potassium (2R,3R)-2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate is anticipated to have a notable solubility in water, primarily driven by its ionic nature and the presence of polar functional groups. While specific solubility data under varying conditions would provide clearer insights, its characteristics suggest it is suited for contexts requiring a soluble compound.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Potassium (2R,3R)-2,3,4-Trihydroxy-4-Oxo-Butanoate

Potassium (2R,3R)-2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate, commonly known as potassium oxalate, is a fascinating compound that has garnered interest in various fields, including biochemistry and nutrition. Here are some intriguing facts:

Natural Occurrence: This compound can be found in several plants and is often associated with oxalic acid, which is prevalent in foods like spinach and rhubarb.
Biological Role: Within biological systems, potassium oxalate plays a crucial role in metabolic processes, serving as an intermediate in the metabolism of certain amino acids.
Antioxidant Properties: Studies have suggested that compounds related to this molecule exhibit antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress.
Applications in Medicine: Potassium oxalate has been explored for its potential therapeutic uses, including its role in treating kidney stones, as high oxalate levels are often linked to this condition.
Chemical Structure: The stereochemistry of (2R,3R) indicates specific three-dimensional arrangements of atoms, which is crucial in determining how the compound interacts with biological receptors.

In summary, potassium (2R,3R)-2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate is not just a chemical entity but a compound with significant implications in both natural and medical contexts. Its rich biological interactions and potential applications make it a subject of ongoing research and interest.