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Sodium laurate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C12H23NaO2
CAS number
629-25-4
IUPAC name
sodium;dodecanoate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium laurate is in a solid state.

Melting point (Celsius)
253.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
526.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
439.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
712.15
General information
Molecular weight
222.30g/mol
Molar mass
222.2990g/mol
Density
1.0080g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium laurate is a white solid, often seen in powder form. It may also be seen as a white crystal. The compound is typically waxy to the touch.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Dodecanoate

Sodium dodecanoate, commonly known as sodium laurate, is a fascinating compound when it comes to its solubility properties. This salt of dodecanoic acid (also referred to as lauric acid) exhibits unique characteristics due to the presence of a long hydrocarbon chain.

General Solubility Behavior

  • Water Solubility: Sodium dodecanoate is soluble in water, primarily due to the ionic nature of the sodium ion (Na+) which interacts favorably with water molecules.
  • Organic Solvents: It is also soluble in various organic solvents, particularly those that are polar and medium-chain length. This dual solubility makes it particularly valuable in applications like emulsification.
  • Temperature Effects: Solubility can increase with temperature, a common trait for many salts, providing flexibility in its applications.

Factors Influencing Solubility

Several factors can affect the solubility of sodium dodecanoate:

  • pH Levels: The solubility can change with the pH of the solution, as it may affect the ionization of the compound.
  • Presence of Other Ions: The solubility might also be influenced by the presence of other ions in solution, which can either enhance or inhibit dissolution.
  • Hydrophobic Interactions: The long hydrophobic tail of dodecanoate can limit solubility in non-polar solvents, making it less soluble in purely non-polar environments.

In conclusion, sodium dodecanoate showcases a captivating solubility profile that serves its utility in various biochemical and industrial processes. As stated, it is soluble in water and behaves uniquely with polar and non-polar solvents alike, making it a compound of interest in both scientific research and practical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Sodium Dodecanoate

Sodium dodecanoate, widely known as sodium laurate, holds a significant role in both natural and industrial contexts. This compound, a sodium salt of dodecanoic acid, showcases a range of interesting attributes:

  • Versatile Surfactant: As an anionic surfactant, sodium dodecanoate is commonly used in soaps and detergents. Its amphiphilic nature allows it to effectively reduce surface tension, making it essential in cleaning products.
  • Biological Relevance: Sodium dodecanoate is also a component of various biological systems. It can serve as an energy source for certain microorganisms and is involved in metabolic processes in living organisms.
  • Indispensable in Research: This compound plays a key role in biochemical research and pharmaceutical formulations. It is often utilized as an emulsifier, stabilizing agents, and in drug delivery systems.
  • Environmental Impact: Being a biodegradable compound, sodium dodecanoate poses less environmental risk than many synthetic detergents, making it a preferable choice in eco-friendly formulations.
  • Historical Background: Sodium dodecanoate has been utilized since the advent of soap-making, illustrating the long-standing relationship between chemistry and daily life.

In conclusion, sodium dodecanoate represents a fascinating intersection of chemistry, biology, and environmental science, underscoring its importance in both commercial and natural applications. As scientists continue to explore its properties, the potential for new discoveries remains vast!