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Tetrabutylammonium chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
C16H36NCl
CAS number
1112-67-0
IUPAC name
tert-butyl-(2-hydroxy-4-phenyl-butyl)ammonium;chloride
State
State

This compound exists as a solid at room temperature, typically forming crystals or powder. Due to its ionic nature, it has a relatively high boiling point.

Melting point (Celsius)
100.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
373.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
230.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
503.15
General information
Molecular weight
203.80g/mol
Molar mass
203.8000g/mol
Density
0.9980g/cm3
Appearence

Tetrabutylammonium chloride is typically a white or off-white crystalline solid. It may also be found in powder form and is highly soluble in water as well as alcohols.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of tert-butyl-(2-hydroxy-4-phenyl-butyl)ammonium chloride

The solubility of tert-butyl-(2-hydroxy-4-phenyl-butyl)ammonium chloride is influenced by several factors, which can be summarized as follows:

  • Polar vs. Nonpolar Solvent: As a quaternary ammonium salt, this compound is generally more soluble in polar solvents such as water. This is due to its ionic character, which enhances interactions with polar solvents.
  • Temperature: Solubility can significantly increase with temperature. Higher temperatures can disrupt interactions among molecules, thus promoting greater solubility.
  • Concentration: The concentration of the compound within a solvent can lead to saturation, affecting how much of the compound can dissolve.
  • Ionic Strength: The presence of other ions in solution can influence the solubility of this compound. High ionic strength can either enhance or reduce solubility depending on the interactions involved.

In general, while quaternary ammonium salts like this one are known for their decent solubility in water, the unique structure imparted by the phenyl group may introduce some exceptions. As noted, the effectiveness of solubility can be contingent upon specific conditions:

  • To quote a common phrase in chemistry: "Like dissolves like." Hence, it may be less soluble in strictly nonpolar solvents.

Overall, understanding the solubility of this compound requires careful consideration of its chemical structure and environmental factors.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about tert-Butyl-(2-Hydroxy-4-phenyl-butyl)ammonium Chloride

Tert-butyl-(2-hydroxy-4-phenyl-butyl)ammonium chloride is an intriguing compound that falls under the category of quaternary ammonium salts. This compound is notable for several reasons:

  • Applications in Chemistry: Quaternary ammonium compounds, like this one, often serve as surfactants and are used in a variety of industrial processes. They are especially valued for their ability to enhance solubility and stability in different media.
  • Biological Activity: Some quaternary ammonium salts, including this compound, have demonstrated interesting biological properties. They may act as antimicrobial agents, making them potential candidates for pharmaceutical applications.
  • Synthetic Versatility: The structure of **tert-butyl-(2-hydroxy-4-phenyl-butyl)ammonium chloride** allows for modifications that can lead to derivatives with distinct properties. This adaptability is crucial in materials science and drug design.
  • Polyfunctional Nature: The presence of both a hydroxy group and a hydrophobic tert-butyl group provides this compound with unique characteristics, making it possible to explore its use in creating hybrid materials or functionalized surfaces.

In addition to its chemical properties, tert-butyl-(2-hydroxy-4-phenyl-butyl)ammonium chloride stands as a testament to the diversity of organic chemistry. As noted by many researchers, "the interplay of functionality and structure in ammonium compounds opens a plethora of opportunities for innovation and discovery."

As scientists continue to explore and exploit the unique attributes of compounds like this, the potential applications in pharmaceuticals, agricultural chemicals, and material design are boundless, highlighting the importance of studying such versatile organic molecules.

Synonyms
1-(tert-Butylamino)-4-phenyl-2-butanol hydrochloride
22820-58-2
2-BUTANOL, 1-(tert-BUTYLAMINO)-4-PHENYL-, HYDROCHLORIDE
RefChem:1062514