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Potassium alum

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Identification
Molecular formula
KAl(SO4)2 · 12H2O
CAS number
7784-24-9
IUPAC name
potassium;alumane;2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxyhexanoic acid;hydroxide;hydrate
State
State

At room temperature, potassium alum exists in a solid state. It is usually found in its dodecahydrate form.

Melting point (Celsius)
92.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
365.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
200.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
473.15
General information
Molecular weight
474.39g/mol
Molar mass
474.3900g/mol
Density
1.7300g/cm3
Appearence

Potassium alum appears as a colorless crystalline substance. The crystals are transparent and may appear in large clusters or as individual octahedrons. It may also be available in a finely powdered form, which is white.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium Alumane 2,3,4,5,6-Pentahydroxyhexanoic Acid Hydroxide Hydrate

The solubility of potassium alumane 2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxyhexanoic acid hydroxide hydrate can be intriguing due to its unique composition. This compound is expected to exhibit behavior influenced by both its ionic constituents and the hydroxy functional groups present. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Hydroxide Ion Influence: The presence of hydroxide ions (OH-) generally suggests a higher solubility in polar solvents, especially water.
  • Hydrophilic Nature: The multiple hydroxy groups contribute to the compound’s hydrophilic characteristics, often enhancing its dissolution in aqueous environments.
  • Potential Factors: Factors such as temperature, pressure, and ionic strength of the solution can notably affect solubility, making experimental determination essential.
  • Cation Solubility: Potassium ions (K+) typically lead to increased solubility, as they can stabilize the dissociated form of the compound in solution.

In summary, the combination of potassium ions and multiple hydroxyl groups suggests that potassium alumane 2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxyhexanoic acid hydroxide hydrate is likely to be soluble in water, although the exact solubility may need to be determined experimentally due to the complexities of its molecular interactions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Potassium Alumane 2,3,4,5,6-Pentahydroxyhexanoic Acid Hydroxide Hydrate

Potassium alumane 2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxyhexanoic acid hydroxide hydrate is a fascinating compound with numerous intriguing aspects worth exploring:

  • Structure and Composition: This compound is derived from a hydroxy acid, which makes it particularly interesting in the context of biochemistry. The presence of multiple hydroxyl groups can significantly influence its reactivity and interaction with biological systems.
  • Applications in Medicine: Compounds with similar structures are often examined for their potential therapeutic uses, including their role in drug formulation and delivery. The hydroxyl groups may enhance solubility, making the compound a candidate for enhanced bioavailability.
  • Hydration Importance: The hydrate form of this compound indicates the attachment of water molecules, which can influence its stability, reactivity, and effective use in various applications. Hydrated compounds are crucial in understanding the mechanism of action in biochemical processes.
  • Sustainability Factors: The use of potassium in this compound may provide avenues for research into sustainable practices, as potassium is an abundant and essential element in biological systems, vital for plant growth and nutrient uptake.
  • Research Potential: Due to its unique combination of functional groups, this compound may serve as a model for studying interactions in organic and inorganic chemistry. Its unique structure opens avenues for further research in synthetic methodologies and catalysis.

In summary, potassium alumane 2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxyhexanoic acid hydroxide hydrate encapsulates a wealth of chemical, methodological, and practical considerations that may impact various fields, particularly in medicinal and environmental chemistry.