Skip to main content

Sodium oleate

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C18H33NaO2
CAS number
143-19-1
IUPAC name
sodium;octadec-9-enoate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium oleate is typically a solid. It can be found in powdered, flake, or pellet form depending on its preparation and the specific application.

Melting point (Celsius)
232.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
505.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
206.30
Boiling point (Kelvin)
479.45
General information
Molecular weight
304.44g/mol
Molar mass
304.4370g/mol
Density
0.8951g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium oleate is a white to yellowish powder or pellets, and it may appear as a solidified crystalline mass. It has a soapy feel and is often used in soap making, giving it a characteristic soap-like appearance and texture.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Octadec-9-enoate

Sodium octadec-9-enoate, commonly known as sodium oleate, is a compound with varying solubility characteristics that make it quite interesting in chemical processes. Its solubility is influenced by several factors:

  • Water Solubility: Sodium octadec-9-enoate is significantly soluble in water. This high solubility is attributed to the ionic nature of the sodium salt, which dissociates readily in aqueous solutions.
  • Solvent Interaction: It tends to exhibit varying solubility in organic solvents. For instance, it is moderately soluble in alcohols and less soluble in hydrocarbons. This behavior underlines the importance of the solvent in determining solubility.
  • Temperature Effects: As with many salts, the solubility of sodium octadec-9-enoate can increase with rising temperatures, making it useful in processes that require heat.

In practical applications, sodium octadec-9-enoate acts as a surfactant due to its amphiphilic nature, contributing to its ability to dissolve in both polar and non-polar environments. This dual solubility is particularly advantageous in fields such as pharmaceuticals, where it can facilitate the mixing of otherwise immiscible substances.

Overall, the solubility profile of sodium octadec-9-enoate makes it a versatile compound, showcasing the intricate balance between ionic and molecular interactions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium Octadec-9-enoate

Sodium octadec-9-enoate, also known as sodium oleate, is an important compound in both industrial and scientific applications. Here are some compelling aspects of this intriguing substance:

  • Surfactant Properties: Sodium octadec-9-enoate acts as an effective surfactant, which means it reduces the surface tension of liquids. This property is invaluable in various applications, particularly in detergents and emulsifiers.
  • Natural Occurrence: This compound is a natural fatty acid salt derived from oleic acid, which can be found in various oils, such as olive oil. Its natural origin makes it an interesting subject of study in biochemistry and sustainable chemistry.
  • Biocompatibility: Sodium octadec-9-enoate is recognized for its biocompatibility. This characteristic makes it suitable for use in pharmaceutical formulations, particularly in drug delivery systems.
  • Function in Soap Making: In the process of soap making, this compound contributes to the formation of soap through saponification reactions. This is a fascinating process where triglycerides react with a strong base to create soap and glycerol.
  • Stability: The compound is stable under various conditions, making it useful in food and pharmaceutical products. Its stability allows for long shelf life and consistent performance in formulations.

As a compound with diverse applications and fascinating properties, sodium octadec-9-enoate continues to be a subject of research, with ongoing studies exploring its potential in various fields.