Skip to main content

Sodium acetoacetic acid

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C4H5NaO3
CAS number
2320-78-9
IUPAC name
sodium;3-oxobutanoate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium acetoacetic acid is typically in a solid state. It is stable under ordinary conditions but should be stored in a dry environment due to its hygroscopic nature.

Melting point (Celsius)
148.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
421.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
252.60
Boiling point (Kelvin)
525.80
General information
Molecular weight
144.07g/mol
Molar mass
144.1040g/mol
Density
1.4900g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium acetoacetic acid typically appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is generally hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air. This property can influence its appearance and handling.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 3-Oxobutanoate

Sodium 3-oxobutanoate, often referred to as sodium acetoacetate, exhibits notable solubility characteristics that are essential in various applications. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Sodium 3-oxobutanoate is highly soluble in water. This property makes it useful in biochemical reactions and analytical chemistry.
  • Effect of Temperature: The solubility of sodium 3-oxobutanoate can increase with rising temperatures, following the general trend where many solutes become more soluble at elevated temperatures.
  • pH Dependence: The solubility may also be influenced by the pH of the solution, as the ionization of the compound can vary depending on the acidic or basic conditions.
  • Comparison with Other Salts: When compared to other sodium salts, sodium 3-oxobutanoate demonstrates comparable solubility, which makes it a suitable candidate for various formulations.

In practical applications, the high solubility of sodium 3-oxobutanoate allows for easy incorporation into solutions, making it an invaluable compound in both laboratory and industrial settings. Its ability to dissolve readily in water facilitates its role as a substrate in synthetic processes and as a buffering agent.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 3-Oxobutanoate

Sodium 3-oxobutanoate, commonly referred to as sodium acetoacetate, is a fascinating compound that plays a vital role in various biochemical processes. Here are some intriguing aspects about this compound:

  • Intermediate in Metabolism: Sodium 3-oxobutanoate serves as a key intermediate in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, particularly in the synthesis of ketone bodies. This makes it essential for energy production in the body, especially during fasting or low-carbohydrate diets.
  • Role in Organic Synthesis: This compound is widely used in organic synthesis, especially in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and food additives. Its versatility makes it a valuable building block in synthetic organic chemistry.
  • Biological Importance: As a precursor to acetoacetate, it plays an important role in the biosynthesis of essential molecules, demonstrating how interconnected metabolic pathways can be. It is also involved in the synthesis of various amino acids.
  • Research Applications: Sodium 3-oxobutanoate has been the subject of research in the field of diabetes management. Studies have suggested that it may help in regulating blood sugar levels, thus aiding in the management of diabetes.
  • Market Availability: Sodium 3-oxobutanoate is readily available as a reagent in laboratories and industrial settings. It is prized for its stability and ease of use in various chemical reactions.

In summary, sodium 3-oxobutanoate stands out not only for its chemical versatility but also for its significant biological and metabolic roles. As one explores the world of organic chemistry and human metabolism, this compound serves as a reminder of the intricate connections between our body's biochemistry and the compounds synthesized in laboratories.