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Sodium tetradecyl sulfate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C14H29NaO4S
CAS number
1191-50-0
IUPAC name
sodium;tetradecyl sulfate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium tetradecyl sulfate is typically found as a solid. It may also be supplied in liquid mixtures where it is used in aqueous solutions.

Melting point (Celsius)
206.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
479.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
260.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
533.15
General information
Molecular weight
316.44g/mol
Molar mass
316.4630g/mol
Density
1.0200g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate typically appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder or granules. It may also be found in liquid form when dissolved in water, forming a clear to slightly cloudy solution. The compound is a surfactant and may have a slightly soapy texture to the touch when in solution.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Tetradecyl Sulfate

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate, with the chemical formula C14H29NaO4S, is a surfactant that has notable solubility characteristics.

Solubility in Water

This compound is highly soluble in water, making it an effective agent in various applications. The solubility can be attributed to its ionic nature, which allows it to interact favorably with the polar water molecules.

Solvent Interaction

Here are some key points about its solubility:

  • Sodium tetradecyl sulfate exhibits excellent solubility in aqueous solutions, particularly due to its sulfate group.
  • It can form micelles in water, enhancing its ability to solubilize hydrophobic substances.
  • In organic solvents, this compound may exhibit limited solubility, which can restrict its use in non-polar environments.

Temperature Effects

The solubility of sodium tetradecyl sulfate can also be influenced by temperature; generally, as temperature increases, solubility in water may improve. The compound is known to remain stable across a range of conditions, an essential factor in many industrial and laboratory applications.

In summary, the solubility of sodium tetradecyl sulfate demonstrates significant versatility, particularly in aqueous environments, highlighting its valuable role in surfactant chemistry.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium Tetradecyl Sulfate

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STS) is a fascinating compound that has garnered attention in various fields of science, particularly in medicine and biochemistry. Here are some noteworthy points about this compound:

  • Primary Use: Sodium tetradecyl sulfate is predominantly used as a sclerosing agent in the treatment of varicose veins. It works by causing inflammation and subsequent destruction of the blood vessels.
  • Mechanism of Action: The compound acts by inducing a localized inflammatory response, which leads to fibrosis and closure of the treated veins. This process is essential in minimizing the risk of complications associated with varicose veins.
  • Other Applications: Beyond its primary use in sclerotherapy, STS is investigated for its potential applications in dermatology and other vascular-related treatments, showcasing its versatility.
  • Safety and Efficacy: Clinical studies have shown that when used correctly, sodium tetradecyl sulfate has a good safety profile. However, as with all medical treatments, it should be used under professional supervision to minimize risks.
  • Chemical Nature: STS belongs to the sulfonate family of compounds and is classified as an anionic surfactant. This classification highlights its effectiveness in lowering surface tension, making it useful in various chemical processes.
  • Environmental Impact: Scientists are researching the environmental implications of using anionic surfactants like STS. It’s important to understand both the positive and negative impacts these substances may have on ecosystems.

In summary, sodium tetradecyl sulfate is not just a medical tool; it represents the intersection of chemistry and healthcare, demonstrating how chemical compounds can have profound impacts on human health. As a chemist or a student, understanding such compounds can inspire deeper exploration into their capabilities and applications.