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Potassium Octanoate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C8H15KO2
CAS number
1119-83-1
IUPAC name
potassium;octanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, Potassium octanoate is in a solid state. Due to its crystalline structure, it is relatively stable and maintains its solid form under standard conditions.

Melting point (Celsius)
275.90
Melting point (Kelvin)
549.05
Boiling point (Celsius)
233.10
Boiling point (Kelvin)
506.25
General information
Molecular weight
166.27g/mol
Molar mass
166.2710g/mol
Density
1.0385g/cm3
Appearence

Potassium octanoate typically appears as a white or off-white crystalline powder. It may also be present in a more granular form depending on its purity and preparation method.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium Octanoate

Potassium octanoate, a potassium salt of octanoic acid, exhibits unique solubility characteristics that are worth noting:

  • Water Solubility: This compound is generally soluble in water due to the ionic nature of the potassium salt, allowing it to dissociate effectively in aqueous solutions.
  • Organic Solubility: It also shows moderate solubility in organic solvents, such as ethanol and methanol, which can be attributed to the hydrophobic octanoate ion.
  • Concentration Effects: The solubility can be influenced by factors such as temperature and concentration. As temperature increases, the solubility often improves, making it easier to dissolve in larger quantities.

In practical terms, this means that potassium octanoate is versatile in its applications, being effective in both aqueous and organic environments. Its ability to dissolve in a variety of solvents facilitates its use in various industries, particularly in food additives and cosmetic formulations.

Overall, understanding the solubility of potassium octanoate is essential for its effective application in different chemical processes and formulations.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Potassium Octanoate

Potassium octanoate, also known as potassium caprylate, is a fascinating compound with several notable applications and properties. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Nature's Source: Potassium octanoate is derived from octanoic acid, a saturated fatty acid that can be found in various animal fats and vegetable oils. This connection to natural sources adds to its appeal in various industries, particularly in food and cosmetics.
  • Food Industry Usage: It is commonly used as a food additive due to its emulsifying properties. Its ability to blend oils and fats with water makes it valuable in improving the texture and stability of food products.
  • Biological Relevance: Potassium octanoate is known for its role in metabolism. It is a source of energy for some organisms and can play a part in lipid metabolism.
  • Pharmaceutical Applications: This compound is utilized in the pharmaceutical industry for its antimicrobial properties. It is often used in formulations to help preserve products and prevent microbial growth.
  • Cosmetic Industry Influence: Due to its emulsifying and skin-conditioning properties, potassium octanoate is frequently found in cosmetic formulations, offering benefits for skin texture and hydration.

Safety and Environmental Impact

Potassium octanoate is generally regarded as safe for consumption and use in personal care products. As with all substances, it is important to adhere to proper guidelines and regulations to ensure safe utilization. Furthermore, being derived from natural sources, potassium octanoate is often considered more environmentally friendly compared to synthetic alternatives.

In summary, potassium octanoate exemplifies the intersection of chemistry and various industries, showcasing how a single compound can serve multiple functions across different fields.

Synonyms
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