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Sunset Yellow FCF

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Identification
Molecular formula
C12H9N2NaO3S
CAS number
2783-94-0
IUPAC name
sodium;4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)azobenzenesulfonate
State
State

At room temperature, Sunset Yellow FCF is typically found in a solid granular or powdered form.

Melting point (Celsius)
300.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
573.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
452.38g/mol
Molar mass
452.3800g/mol
Density
1.2920g/cm3
Appearence

Sunset Yellow FCF appears as an orange to reddish-yellow powder or granule. It is known for imparting an orange to yellow color when used as a dye or food coloring agent.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 4-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)azobenzenesulfonate

Sodium 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)azobenzenesulfonate, often referred to as a sodium salt of an azo dye, exhibits a range of solubility characteristics that can be intriguing when considering its application and behavior in different environments.

Key Points about Solubility:

  • Water Solubility: This compound is generally soluble in water, forming a clear, colored solution. The sulfonate group contributes significantly to this solubility due to its ionic nature, which favors interactions with water molecules.
  • pH Sensitivity: The solubility can vary with changes in pH. Typically, an increase in acidity or basicity can alter the ionization state of the compound, potentially affecting its solubility in water.
  • Polar Solvents: Aside from water, this sodium salt is likely to have moderate solubility in other polar solvents. The presence of hydroxy and sulfonate groups increases hydrogen bonding capabilities, enhancing solubility.
  • Organic Solvents: In contrast, the solubility in non-polar solvents is expected to be low. This is due to the hydrophilic nature of the molecule which repels non-polar interactions.

In summary, the solubility of sodium 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)azobenzenesulfonate is primarily influenced by its ionic and polar characteristics, making it versatile in aqueous solutions while limiting its solubility in organic solvents. Understanding these properties is essential for its practical use in various chemical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 4-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)azobenzenesulfonate

Sodium 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)azobenzenesulfonate, often referred to as a member of the azo compound family, is a vibrant and versatile chemical often used in the realm of dyes and pigments. Here are some intriguing aspects to consider:

  • Azo Compounds: This compound belongs to a larger category known as azo dyes, which are characterized by the presence of the azo group (–N=N–). These compounds are known for their vivid colors, making them popular in the textile and food industries.
  • Environmental Applications: Besides its cosmetic and textile uses, this compound is also being studied for its potential applications in environmental technology, particularly in the detection of heavy metals in wastewater.
  • Probing for Photostability: Due to their conjugated structure, azo compounds like sodium 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)azobenzenesulfonate exhibit unique properties when exposed to light, leading to studies on their photostability and photodegradation. Scientists are keen on how these compounds can change properties under UV radiation.
  • Health and Safety: While many azo dyes are known for their safety in applications, it’s important to note that some have been linked to health concerns, prompting regulations and careful usage assessments. Awareness regarding the health implications of azo compounds is increasing.
  • Research Potential: Ongoing research is exploring the use of this compound as a biosensor due to its ability to change color in response to environmental stimuli, potentially leading to innovative technologies in sensors and indicators.

In summary, sodium 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)azobenzenesulfonate exemplifies the diverse palette within the world of chemistry, showcasing not only practical applications but also highlighting the need for responsible exploration of its use in modern science. As it continues to capture the interest of chemists, this compound is a fitting subject for further inquiry and innovation.