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Thioglycolic acid, sodium salt

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Identification
Molecular formula
C2H3NaO2S
CAS number
367-51-1
IUPAC name
sodium;2-sulfanylacetate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium thioglycolate is a solid. It is available as a white crystalline substance. However, due to its hygroscopic nature, it can absorb moisture and potentially turn into a liquid if left exposed to the atmosphere.

Melting point (Celsius)
184.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
457.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
240.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
513.15
General information
Molecular weight
110.07g/mol
Molar mass
110.0740g/mol
Density
1.3940g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium thioglycolate appears as a white crystalline solid. It may also be seen as a crystalline powder and often exhibits good deliquescent properties, meaning it can absorb moisture from the atmosphere and dissolve in it. It is typically stored in airtight containers to prevent it from becoming a liquid due to absorbed moisture.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 2-Sulfanylacetate

Sodium 2-sulfanylacetate, also known as sodium thioacetate, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that are crucial for its applications in various chemical processes.

Solubility in Water

This compound is known to be soluble in water, which is a significant property that facilitates its use in aqueous environments. The solubility can be attributed to:

  • The ionic nature of the sodium ion (Na+) contributing to its interactions with water molecules.
  • The presence of the thioacetate group making it more polar, thus enhancing its solubility.

Solvent Influence

While sodium 2-sulfanylacetate is soluble in water, its solubility may vary in different solvents. In general:

  • It displays limited solubility in organic solvents such as ether and benzene.
  • Polar solvents often promote higher solubility than non-polar solvents.

Concentration Effects

As with many soluble compounds, the concentration of sodium 2-sulfanylacetate in solution can affect its solubility limit. High concentrations may lead to saturation, resulting in precipitation. Therefore:

  • It is essential to keep the temperature and stirring conditions optimal to maintain solubility.
  • Understanding the temperature-dependence of solubility can also be beneficial in applications.

In conclusion, the solubility profile of sodium 2-sulfanylacetate plays a vital role in its practical applications, particularly in biological systems and organic synthesis. Its behavior in various solvents is influenced by ionic interactions and polarity, making it an interesting compound to study in the field of chemistry.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 2-Sulfanylacetate

Sodium 2-sulfanylacetate is a fascinating compound that draws attention not only for its unique properties but also for its diverse applications in the field of chemistry and biology.

Key Applications and Uses

  • Biochemical Reactions: This compound acts as a crucial substrate in various biochemical reactions, particularly in metabolic pathways.
  • Antioxidant Properties: It exhibits potential antioxidant properties, which means it can help neutralize free radicals in biological systems.
  • Pharmaceutical Applications: Sodium 2-sulfanylacetate is sometimes explored in drug development, especially in therapies targeting metabolic disorders.

Chemical Characteristics

One of the most intriguing aspects of sodium 2-sulfanylacetate is its composition, which features both sulfur and acetate groups. These provide the compound with unique reactivity profiles:

  • Nucleophilic Behavior: The sulfanyl group can act as a nucleophile, opening pathways to new organic syntheses.
  • Coordination Complexes: It can form coordination complexes with various metals, making it of interest in material sciences.

Cultural Significance

In addition to its scientific relevance, sodium 2-sulfanylacetate has also found its way into discussions on sustainability. With increasing interest in green chemistry, compounds like this are being evaluated for their potential in:

  • Biosensors: Leveraging its properties for the development of more effective biosensors.
  • Eco-friendly Materials: Contributions to the synthesis of biodegradable materials can help reduce environmental impact.

As researchers continue to explore the capabilities of sodium 2-sulfanylacetate, it remains a prime example of how a single compound can influence various scientific domains. The study of its properties not only enhances our understanding of chemistry but also opens up new avenues for innovation. In the words of a prominent chemist, “True discovery lies in the unraveling of the obscure.” The journey to understand compounds like this is just beginning!