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Sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C18H29NaO3S
CAS number
25155-30-0
IUPAC name
sodium;4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate is a solid. It is typically available in powdered or granular form, making it easy to handle and use in various applications.

Melting point (Celsius)
205.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
478.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
280.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
553.15
General information
Molecular weight
348.48g/mol
Molar mass
348.4830g/mol
Density
0.8625g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate appears as a white to light yellow powder or granular solid. It is a surfactant and can be found as a component in various cleaning and detergent formulations.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate

Sodium 4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate, often categorized as a surfactant, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that are noteworthy:

  • Solvent Compatibility: This compound is typically soluble in polar solvents such as water due to its ionic sodium component.
  • Hydrophobic Chain Influence: The long hydrophobic alkyl chain (1-methylundecyl) can affect solubility, enhancing its ability to dissolve in organic solvents.
  • Temperature Dependence: Its solubility may vary with temperature; generally, increased temperatures lead to increased solubility.
  • Concentration Effects: At higher concentrations, sodium 4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate can form micelles, which may impact its effective solubility.

In summary, the balance between the hydrophilic (sulfonate group) and hydrophobic (alkyl chain) portions of sodium 4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate makes it a versatile compound with varying solubility profiles in different environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate

Sodium 4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate, commonly recognized as a surfactant, plays a crucial role in various chemical and industrial applications. Here are some engaging insights about this compound:

  • Surfactant Properties: This compound is classified as an anionic surfactant, which means it carries a negative charge in solution. This characteristic enables it to effectively lower the surface tension of liquids, making it ideal for use in detergents and cleaning agents.
  • Applications in Emulsions: Due to its ability to stabilize emulsions, sodium 4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate is widely utilized in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. It helps in creating stable formulations that can mix oil and water.
  • Environmental Impact: As with many surfactants, understanding the environmental impact of this compound is essential. It is often evaluated for biodegradability and potential toxicity to aquatic life, motivating ongoing research in greener alternatives.
  • Role in Laboratory Use: Sodium 4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate is used in laboratory settings as a wetting agent or dispersant. This helps in various assays and chemical processes where uniform distribution of components is necessary.
  • Molecular Versatility: The unique structure of this compound, particularly the long hydrophobic chain, contributes to its effectiveness. This property allows it to interact with a variety of substances, making it a versatile agent in chemical formulations.

In conclusion, sodium 4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate demonstrates the fascinating interplay between chemistry and practical applications, shedding light on how specialized compounds can drive innovation across various fields.