Sodium 3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate

Identification

Molecular formula

C₈H₉NaO₃S

CAS number

127-73-9

IUPAC name

sodium;3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate

State

At room temperature, sodium 3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate is typically found in a solid state. It is stable under standard conditions but should be stored in a dry place to avoid hygroscopic clumping.

Melting point (Celsius)

302.00

Melting point (Kelvin)

575.15

Boiling point (Celsius)

320.00

Boiling point (Kelvin)

593.15

General information

Molecular weight

216.22g/mol

Molar mass

216.2340g/mol

Density

1.5621g/cm³

Appearence

Sodium 3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate typically appears as a white crystalline powder. The crystals possess a clear white color, indicating its purity and the absence of impurities.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 3,4-Dimethylbenzenesulfonate

Sodium 3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate, a sulfonate compound, exhibits notable solubility characteristics due to its ionic nature. When analyzing its solubility, consider the following points:

Water Solubility: This compound is typically highly soluble in water. Its ionic bonding facilitates interactions with water molecules, leading to effective dissolution.
Solvent Interactions: In addition to water, sodium 3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate may also show solubility in various polar solvents. This enhances its utility in diverse chemical applications.
Temperature Dependence: The solubility of this compound can be influenced by temperature. Generally, increased temperatures may enhance solubility, making it an important factor to consider in experimental conditions.
Concentration Limits: While it is quite soluble, there are saturation limits beyond which no additional sodium 3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate will dissolve in solution; exceeding these limits leads to precipitation.

In summary, sodium 3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate exemplifies high solubility in polar solvents, particularly water, making it a versatile compound in chemical processes. Understanding its solubility behavior is crucial for effective applications in both laboratory and industrial settings.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 3,4-Dimethylbenzenesulfonate

Sodium 3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate is a fascinating compound that serves various roles in both industrial applications and laboratory settings. Here are some notable aspects:

Versatile Surfactant: This compound is widely recognized for its properties as a surfactant, making it invaluable in the formulation of detergents and cleaners. Surfactants lower the surface tension of water, enhancing the ability to spread and emulsify.
Biochemical Research: In biochemical studies, sodium 3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate is often used as a reagent. It can play a crucial role in phase-transfer catalysis and has applications in synthesizing various organic compounds.
Environmental Impact: The sulfonate functional group contributes to the water-soluble nature of this compound, making it easier to handle in terms of environmental safety. Biodegradability studies around sulfonates are ongoing to assess their ecological footprint.
Importance in Food Industry: Sodium 3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate can sometimes find its way into food applications, serving as an additive to enhance flavor or aid in the preservation of food products.

This compound embodies a convergence of industrial utility and scientific research potential. Its versatility reflects the ongoing need for compounds that can bridge various applications, earning it a noteworthy place in the world of chemistry.

"Chemistry is the art of transformation; compounds like sodium 3,4-dimethylbenzenesulfonate remind us of the beauty in versatility."