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Disodium Malate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H6Na2O5
CAS number
676-46-0
IUPAC name
sodium;2-(carboxymethyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium 2-(carboxymethyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate exists as a solid. It is stable under standard temperature and pressure conditions but should be stored in a dry place to prevent clumping or degradation.

Melting point (Celsius)
130.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
403.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
300.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
573.15
General information
Molecular weight
194.04g/mol
Molar mass
194.0420g/mol
Density
1.4001g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium 2-(carboxymethyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate is typically a white crystalline powder. It may also appear as an off-white solid depending on purity and specific conditions such as humidity and temperature during storage. The solid is usually odorless.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 2-(Carboxymethyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate

Sodium 2-(carboxymethyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate, often referred to as a sodium salt of a hydroxy acid, exhibits unique solubility characteristics. Its solubility can be influenced by several factors:

  • Polarity: Due to the presence of multiple polar functional groups, including carboxylate and hydroxyl groups, this compound is generally highly soluble in polar solvents like water.
  • pH Sensitivity: The solubility can also vary with pH. At lower pH values, the carboxylic acid may remain protonated, potentially reducing solubility. In contrast, at neutral or higher pH, deprotonation increases solubility due to the formation of the carboxylate anion.
  • Temperature: Like many salts, solubility tends to increase with temperature, allowing for more significant dissolution at elevated temperatures.

It is worth noting that when dissolved, this compound can participate in hydrogen bonding, enhancing solubility further; as stated in solution chemistry, "the more polar the solute, the better it dissolves in polar solvents."

Ultimately, the solubility of sodium 2-(carboxymethyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate makes it an interesting compound for various applications, particularly in biological and pharmaceutical contexts, where its solubility properties can influence its functionality and efficacy.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 2-(Carboxymethyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate

Sodium 2-(carboxymethyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate, often referred to in scientific terms as part of the larger family of organic compounds, offers some intriguing characteristics and applications:

  • Origin of the Name: The name of this compound reflects its unique chemical structure. The carboxymethyl group indicates the presence of a carboxylic acid functional group attached to a methyl chain, which is integral to its properties.
  • Biological Significance: This compound has been explored for its potential roles in biology, particularly in metabolic pathways. It may be involved with enzymatic reactions that are crucial for the synthesis of various biomolecules.
  • Food Industry Application: Compounds like this often serve as *food preservatives* or flavor enhancers. They help maintain the quality of food products and prevent spoilage, making them valuable in food chemistry.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Research indicates that the hydroxyl groups in its structure can function as antioxidants, helping to protect cells from oxidative stress.
  • Synthesis and Utilization: The synthesis of this compound can involve various steps of organic reactions, showcasing the intricate techniques chemists use to manipulate chemical structures for desired outcomes.

Exploring the world of sodium 2-(carboxymethyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-4-oxo-butanoate provides a glimpse into the applications of organic compounds in both biochemistry and industry. As a student or scientist, delving into its properties can inspire innovative research and practical applications.