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Sodium salicylate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C7H5NaO3
CAS number
54-21-7
IUPAC name
sodium;4-amino-2-hydroxy-benzoate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium salicylate is in the solid state. It is often found in the form of crystalline powder or granules.

Melting point (Celsius)
200.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
473.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
160.11g/mol
Molar mass
160.1060g/mol
Density
1.4430g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium salicylate typically appears as a white crystalline powder or granules. It is odorless and has a sweetish saline taste.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 4-Amino-2-Hydroxybenzoate

Sodium 4-amino-2-hydroxybenzoate, commonly known as sodium salicylate, exhibits some interesting solubility properties that make it relevant in various applications.

Water Solubility

This compound is known to be relatively soluble in water due to the presence of the sodium ion, which enhances its aqueous solubility. Specifically, its solubility in water can be attributed to:

  • The ionic nature of the sodium ion, which interacts favorably with water molecules.
  • The polar hydroxyl groups present in the compound, facilitating hydrogen bonding with water.

Solubility in Organic Solvents

While sodium 4-amino-2-hydroxybenzoate is readily soluble in water, its solubility in organic solvents is comparatively limited. This is primarily due to:

  • The ionized nature of the sodium salt, which does not favorably interact with non-polar organic solvents.
  • The structural characteristics that favor hydrophilic interactions over hydrophobic ones.

Factors Influencing Solubility

The solubility of sodium 4-amino-2-hydroxybenzoate can be influenced by several factors such as:

  • Temperature: Increased temperatures generally enhance solubility, allowing for higher concentrations in solution.
  • pH: The solubility can also depend on the pH of the solution, as changes in pH can affect the ionization of the compound.
  • Presence of Other Ionic Species: Other ions in solution may either enhance or hinder the solubility by competing for solvation.

In conclusion, sodium 4-amino-2-hydroxybenzoate demonstrates a notable affinity for water, making it beneficial for various applications including pharmaceuticals, while its limited solubility in organic solvents underscores its hydrophilic character.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Sodium 4-Amino-2-Hydroxybenzoate

Sodium 4-amino-2-hydroxybenzoate, commonly referred to as sodium salicylate, is an intriguing compound with a variety of applications in both pharmaceuticals and industrial chemistry. Here are several fascinating aspects to consider:

  • Medical Applications: Sodium salicylate is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, often used as a pain reliever. It acts similarly to aspirin but is less irritating to the stomach, making it an alternative for those sensitive to traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  • Biochemical Role: This compound plays a role as a metabolic intermediate in various biochemical pathways. Its ability to influence cell signaling makes it a subject of interest in pharmacological research.
  • Colorimetric Analysis: Sodium 4-amino-2-hydroxybenzoate is utilized in analytical chemistry, particularly in colorimetric methods for detecting phenolic compounds. Its reactivity allows for sensitive measurement techniques in laboratory settings.
  • Environmental Impact: As a biodegradable compound, sodium salicylate is considered environmentally friendly compared to other synthetic chemicals that can persist in ecosystems, promoting greener chemistry practices.
  • Historical Significance: The salicylate family, of which this compound is a part, has a long history in traditional medicine, dating back to the use of willow bark. It is fascinating how these natural origins have translated into modern pharmaceutical applications.

In summary, sodium 4-amino-2-hydroxybenzoate is a multifaceted compound with significant implications in health science, environmental studies, and analytical chemistry. Its enduring relevance in both historical and contemporary settings highlights the importance of this compound in our understanding of chemistry and its applications.