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Sodium isovalerate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C5H9NaO2
CAS number
845-73-6
IUPAC name
sodium;3-methylbutanoate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium isovalerate is typically a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
300.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
573.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
464.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
737.15
General information
Molecular weight
116.12g/mol
Molar mass
126.1160g/mol
Density
1.5000g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium isovalerate usually appears as a white crystalline solid or powder. It is odorless or may have a slight characteristic odor.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 3-methylbutanoate

Sodium 3-methylbutanoate, a sodium salt derived from the carboxylic acid 3-methylbutanoic acid, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that make it appealing for various applications.

This compound is known for its excellent water solubility, primarily due to the ionic nature of the sodium cation (Na+) and the hydrophilic properties associated with the carboxylate ion from 3-methylbutanoate. In more detail, consider the following points:

  • High Solubility in Water: Sodium 3-methylbutanoate readily dissolves in water, which facilitates its use in biochemical and industrial processes.
  • Hydration Shell Formation: When dissolved, the sodium ions and the carboxylate ions surround themselves with water molecules, creating a stable hydration shell that enhances solubility.
  • Impact of Temperature: As with many salts, the solubility may increase with temperature, allowing for more sodium 3-methylbutanoate to be dissolved in warm environments.
  • Non-Polar Solvents: It is important to note that sodium 3-methylbutanoate is poorly soluble in non-polar solvents due to its polar nature.

In summary, the solubility of sodium 3-methylbutanoate in water underscores its potential for diverse applications, especially in biological systems and chemical reactions where aqueous solubility is critical. Its behavior exemplifies the essential principle that "like dissolves like," demonstrating the significance of ionic compounds in polar environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 3-Methylbutanoate

Sodium 3-methylbutanoate, a sodium salt derived from 3-methylbutanoic acid, has gained interest in various scientific fields, especially in organic chemistry and biochemistry. Here are some compelling aspects of this compound:

  • Source of Sodium: As a salt, sodium 3-methylbutanoate serves as a source of sodium ions, which are crucial in many biological and chemical processes.
  • Applications in Industry: This compound is used in the food industry as a flavor enhancer and preservative due to its ability to impart a desirable taste and extend shelf life.
  • Role in Metabolism: In biological systems, its parent acid, 3-methylbutanoic acid, is involved in the metabolism of branched-chain amino acids, highlighting the significance of sodium 3-methylbutanoate in metabolic pathways.
  • Research Potential: Scientists are exploring its potential applications in pharmaceuticals and derivatives as it can act as a biochemical tool or marker in enzymatic activity studies.
  • Environmental Impact: Understanding the environmental behavior of sodium salts is essential because it helps in assessing their effects on ecosystems, particularly in terms of soil and water salinity.

In summary, sodium 3-methylbutanoate is not just a simple chemical compound; it has far-reaching implications in food science, biochemistry, and environmental studies. Its ability to bridge these different fields underscores the versatility and relevance of chemical compounds in our daily lives.