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Sodium hexanoate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H11NaO2
CAS number
10051-45-3
IUPAC name
sodium;hexanoate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium hexanoate is a solid. It is typically found as a powder or crystalline solid, making it easy to handle and store in typical laboratory or industrial environments.

Melting point (Celsius)
197.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
470.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
258.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
531.70
General information
Molecular weight
144.17g/mol
Molar mass
144.1690g/mol
Density
1.0230g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium hexanoate appears as a white crystalline solid. It is commonly available as a powder, and its structure consists of sodium ions together with hexanoate ions. In certain conditions or higher concentrations, it may also be hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Hexanoate

Sodium hexanoate, with the chemical formula C6H11NaO2, is an interesting compound when it comes to solubility. As a sodium salt of hexanoic acid, its solubility characteristics can be quite revealing:

  • Water Solubility: Sodium hexanoate is comfortably soluble in water due to the presence of the sodium ion, which increases its ionic character and promotes solvation. This allows it to disperse effectively in aqueous environments.
  • Solvent Interaction: The solubility can be affected by the presence of other ions or organic solvents. In polar solvents, it tends to dissolve well, while in non-polar solvents, its solubility is significantly lower.
  • Temperature Effect: Like many ionic compounds, the solubility of sodium hexanoate in water typically increases with temperature. This is a common trait and can be exploited in various applications where high concentrations are necessary.

It is also noteworthy that the functional hexanoate group contributes to the overall hydrophilicity of the compound, allowing it to stabilize emulsions and interact beneficially with other substances in solution. As a general rule of thumb, “the more sodium ions, the better the solubility in water.”

In summary, sodium hexanoate offers a prime example of how the structure of a compound significantly influences its solubility dynamics, making it a valuable substance in chemical processes.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium Hexanoate

Sodium hexanoate, a fascinating compound with numerous applications and properties, is the sodium salt of hexanoic acid. It has become noteworthy among scientists and industry alike for several reasons:

Key Properties and Uses

  • Food Industry: Sodium hexanoate is frequently used as a food preservative and flavoring agent. It enhances the taste of various food products while also acting as a safeguard against spoilage.
  • Biochemical Applications: This compound is often considered in biochemical research for its role as a fatty acid salt, contributing to the study of lipid metabolism.
  • Biodegradability: Sodium hexanoate is appreciated for its environmental safety. It is biodegradable, making it a better alternative to certain synthetic compounds.

Chemical Behavior

This compound exhibits interesting chemical behavior. It can participate in various reactions, thus serving as a valuable intermediate in the synthesis of more complex molecules. Moreover, sodium hexanoate can affect pH levels when dissolved in water, showcasing its potential influence on biological systems.

Health and Safety Considerations

While sodium hexanoate is generally regarded as safe for consumption in regulated amounts, it is crucial for users in various sectors to be aware of proper handling procedures. As with any chemical compound, it is advisable to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during handling to minimize any risk of irritation or allergic reaction.

Conclusion

In summary, sodium hexanoate is not only a valuable addition to the food and biochemical industries but also serves as a model for studying the behavior of fatty acids in different environments. Its versatility and safety profiles make it an interesting compound for future research and application.