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Potassium Palmitate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C16H31KO2
CAS number
593-29-3
IUPAC name
potassium;hexadecanoate
State
State

At room temperature, potassium palmitate is in a solid state. It is stable under normal conditions, and it typically exists as a non-volatile solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
52.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
325.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
360.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
633.15
General information
Molecular weight
310.54g/mol
Molar mass
310.5350g/mol
Density
1.1200g/cm3
Appearence

Potassium palmitate is a white, powdery or crystalline solid. It is typically available as a fine powder or in a granular form. Its appearance can vary slightly based on purity and form, but it generally remains white or off-white.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium Hexadecanoate

Potassium hexadecanoate, with the formula C16H31KO2, is a salt formed from hexadecanoic acid (also known as palmitic acid) and potassium. Understanding its solubility is crucial for applications in various fields, such as food technology and biochemistry. Here are some key points regarding the solubility of potassium hexadecanoate:

  • Solubility in Water: Potassium hexadecanoate is generally soluble in water due to the ionic nature of the potassium ion (K+), which enhances its interaction with water molecules.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: While it is soluble in aqueous solutions, potassium hexadecanoate exhibits lower solubility in non-polar organic solvents, reflecting its fatty acid nature.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of potassium hexadecanoate often increases with temperature, which is a common trait for many salts and organic compounds.
  • Forms and Concentrations: The solubility can vary based on the concentration in solution; lower concentrations promote a more stable dissolution of the compound.

In summary, potassium hexadecanoate's solubility profile highlights its role as a versatile compound in various applications. As stated, "solubility is the gateway to the utilization of compounds in practical applications," making this characteristic essential for scientists and industry professionals alike.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Potassium Hexadecanoate

Potasium hexadecanoate, commonly known as potassium palmitate, is a fascinating chemical compound that falls within the category of fatty acid salts. Here are some interesting aspects of this compound:

  • Derived from Nature: Potassium hexadecanoate is derived from palmitic acid, a common fatty acid found in palm oil and numerous animal fats. This makes it a natural compound with wide-ranging applications.
  • Emulsifying Agent: This compound acts as an effective emulsifier. It helps stabilize mixtures of oil and water, making it invaluable in the food and cosmetic industries for products such as creams and lotions.
  • Biodegradability: One of the environmental benefits of potassium hexadecanoate is its biodegradability. Unlike synthetic emulsifiers, it decomposes naturally, minimizing its ecological impact.
  • Food Industry Usage: In the food industry, it is often used as a food additive, acting as a thickener or stabilizer in various products, including margarine and baked goods.
  • Research Applications: Potassium hexadecanoate has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its role in lipid metabolism and its effect on energy storage in cells.

To quote a famous chemist, "The beauty of chemistry lies in the relationship between structure and function." Potassium hexadecanoate embodies this principle, showcasing how a simple molecular structure can hold multifaceted roles across various industries and applications.

As a versatile compound, the study of potassium hexadecanoate continues to inspire research aimed at exploring sustainable practices and innovative uses in everyday products. This highlights the importance of understanding chemical compounds in our quest for a greener planet.