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Sodium palmitate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C16H31NaO2
CAS number
408-35-5
IUPAC name
sodium;hexadecanoate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium palmitate is in a solid state, typically in powder or flaky form.

Melting point (Celsius)
262.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
535.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
280.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
553.15
General information
Molecular weight
278.34g/mol
Molar mass
278.3440g/mol
Density
1.0990g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium palmitate commonly appears as a white solid powder. It is often used in the manufacture of soaps.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Hexadecanoate

Sodium hexadecanoate, a long-chain fatty acid salt, exhibits interesting solubility properties that are largely influenced by its molecular structure. As a sodium salt of hexadecanoic acid (also known as palmitic acid), its solubility can be understood through the following key points:

  • Aqueous Solubility: Sodium hexadecanoate is generally soluble in water, although its solubility is limited due to the hydrophobic nature of the long hydrocarbon chain.
  • Tetradecane Solubility: It is significantly soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ether, which can effectively solvate the non-polar hydrocarbon tail.
  • Temperature Dependency: As with many salts, its solubility in water tends to increase with temperature, making it more feasible to dissolve at elevated conditions.

To summarize:

  • In water, sodium hexadecanoate may have limited solubility, often described as moderate.
  • It displays greater solubility in non-polar organic solvents.
  • Temperature can play a significant role in enhancing its solubility in aqueous solutions.

These characteristics make sodium hexadecanoate an interesting compound, particularly in contexts such as food science, cosmetics, and material science, where its solubility influences its functionality.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium Hexadecanoate

Sodium hexadecanoate, commonly known as sodium palmitate, is a fascinating compound with diverse applications and unique properties. As a salt of palmitic acid, a common saturated fatty acid, it is primarily used in the manufacture of soaps and as an emulsifier in various food products. Here are some noteworthy aspects:

  • Biocompatibility: Sodium hexadecanoate is considered biocompatible, making it suitable for use in pharmaceutical formulations and cosmetics.
  • Emulsification: It acts as an effective emulsifier, allowing oil and water to mix, which is essential in the production of creams and lotions.
  • Food Industry Uses: This compound serves as a food additive and stabilizer in products like margarine and baked goods.
  • Biodegradability: Being derived from natural fatty acids, sodium hexadecanoate is biodegradable, reducing its environmental impact compared to synthetic agents.

Chemistry Perspective

From a chemical standpoint, sodium hexadecanoate illustrates the interaction between fatty acids and cationic species, forming a versatile surfactant that can lower surface tension. This characteristic makes it invaluable in various cleaning applications. The sodium ion provides stability to the compound, enhancing its solubility in water. As a student of chemistry, understanding the role of sodium palmitate in chemical processes offers insights into:

  • The significance of ionic compounds in surfactant chemistry
  • The role of fatty acids in biological systems
  • Applications in drug delivery systems

"The interplay between chemistry and practical applications in everyday life makes sodium hexadecanoate a prime example of how chemical principles can lead to valuable products."