Skip to main content

Sodium 3-methylphenoxide

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C7H7NaO
CAS number
2272-26-4
IUPAC name
sodium;3-methylphenolate
State
State

Solid at room temperature. It is generally handled as a powder form or small flakes.

Melting point (Celsius)
238.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
511.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
132.13g/mol
Molar mass
132.1300g/mol
Density
1.1000g/cm3
Appearence

Off-white to pale yellow crystalline powder. It is typically found in solid crystalline form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 3-Methylphenolate

Sodium 3-methylphenolate (C8H9NaO2) is notably soluble in water, which is largely attributed to the presence of the sodium ion and the phenolate ion in its structure. This solubility can be explained by several key points:

  • Ionization: Upon dissolving in water, sodium 3-methylphenolate dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and 3-methylphenolate ions (C8H9O2-), which readily interact with water molecules.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The phenolate ion can participate in hydrogen bonding with water, further encouraging solubility.
  • Polarity: The polar character of the phenol moiety enhances the compound's ability to dissolve in polar solvents like water.

Additionally, the solubility of sodium 3-methylphenolate can vary with temperature:

  • Higher Temperatures: Increased temperature typically results in greater solubility of most salts, including sodium 3-methylphenolate, due to enhanced molecular movement.
  • Concentration Effects: As with many soluble compounds, concentrated solutions may lead to precipitation of the compound out of solution, especially if saturated.

In conclusion, sodium 3-methylphenolate's strong solubility in water makes it a valuable compound in various applications, highlighting the principles of solubility chemistry at play. It’s important to note that *solubility can be influenced by a myriad of factors,* such as pH and the presence of other ions in solution, which can modify the behavior and stability of the compound in aqueous environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 3-Methylphenolate

Sodium 3-Methylphenolate, often referred to as sodium m-cresolate, is an intriguing compound that has applications in both industry and research. Below are some compelling aspects of this compound:

  • Structure and Properties: This compound features a 3-methyl group on a phenolate ring, which plays a significant role in its reactivity. The presence of the hydroxyl group (-OH) in the phenolate structure makes it interesting in various chemical reactions.
  • Versatile Applications: Sodium 3-Methylphenolate is utilized in multiple fields, including:
    • Agriculture: As a constituent in certain herbicides and pesticide formulations.
    • Pharmaceuticals: It serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of various medicinal compounds.
    • Analytical Chemistry: Used in quantitative analyses due to its ability to form complexes with metal ions.
  • Biological Relevance: The compound is of interest in biochemistry because of its role in studying *alkaloids* and *phenolic compounds*, which are vital in understanding various biological processes.
  • Historical Context: While the study of phenol derivatives dates back to the early 19th century, sodium 3-methylphenolate has gained attention in modern organic chemistry for its diverse reactivity patterns.

As students and researchers delve into the realm of organic compounds, sodium 3-methylphenolate serves as a prime example of how structural modifications can lead to significant changes in functionality and application. Its role in both practical applications and theoretical studies is a testament to the intricate world of chemical compounds.

In summary, sodium 3-methylphenolate is not just a simple salt; it represents a bridge between theoretical chemistry and practical application, embodying the diverse potential of organic compounds in everyday life.