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Tetrabutylammonium

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Identification
Molecular formula
C16H36N+
CAS number
31154-45-5
IUPAC name
tetrabutylammonium
State
State

Tetrabutylammonium compounds are typically found as solids at room temperature. They are often hygroscopic, meaning they can absorb moisture from the air.

Melting point (Celsius)
96.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
369.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
310.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
583.15
General information
Molecular weight
242.47g/mol
Molar mass
242.4640g/mol
Density
0.7800g/cm3
Appearence

Tetrabutylammonium compounds are commonly found as white to off-white crystalline powders. Due to their ionic nature and varying states of hydration or solvation, the exact appearance can vary slightly depending on the specific salt and the degree of hydration.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Tetrabutylammonium

Tetrabutylammonium, represented by the formula (C4H9)4N+, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that are significant in various applications. This quaternary ammonium compound is known for its relatively high solubility in organic solvents. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Solvent Compatibility: Tetrabutylammonium salts tend to be soluble in nonpolar and polar aprotic solvents such as chloroform and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO).
  • Water Solubility: Although tetrabutylammonium is less soluble in water than other simpler ammonium salts, it can form colloidal solutions at higher concentrations.
  • Temperature Influence: Like many organic compounds, its solubility can increase with temperature, making it important to consider in thermally controlled applications.
  • Applications: The solubility properties of tetrabutylammonium salts make them useful in areas such as phase transfer catalysis and as ion-exchange reagents.

In summary, the solubility of tetrabutylammonium is primarily determined by its structural characteristics and the nature of the solvent. As stated, "The behavior of solutes in different solvents reveals a lot about their potential uses." When working with this compound, it is crucial to consider its solvation behavior in order to optimize its application in various chemical processes.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Tetrabutylammonium

Tetrabutylammonium, a quaternary ammonium compound, is notable for its unique properties and diverse applications in the field of chemistry. Here are some interesting facts:

  • Structure and Composition: Tetrabutylammonium consists of a central nitrogen atom bonded to four butyl groups. This unique structure contributes to its lipophilicity, making it an effective phase transfer catalyst.
  • Phase Transfer Catalyst: It plays a crucial role in facilitating reactions between polar and nonpolar substances, enabling efficient synthesis processes that would otherwise be challenging.
  • Applications in Organic Synthesis: Tetrabutylammonium is widely utilized in organic chemistry for reactions such as nucleophilic substitution, catalytic cycles, and as a solvent for organic compounds.
  • Biological Importance: Beyond synthetical uses, it also finds application in biological research, where it can serve as a model compound for studying membrane interactions and potential pharmaceutical targets.
  • Environmental Impact: When used with caution, it can serve as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemical reagents, promoting greener chemistry practices.

As a compound that bridges both organic chemistry and environmental science, tetrabutylammonium exemplifies the intersection of innovation and responsibility in modern chemical research.

Synonyms
Tetrabutylammonium
10549-76-5
TETRABUTYLAMMONIUM ION
1-Butanaminium, N,N,N-tributyl-
Ammonium, tetrabutyl-
N,N,N-tributylbutan-1-aminium
tetra-n-butylammonium
CBU2X6BBJR
CHEBI:45825
TETRABUTYLAMMONIUM CATION
DTXSID3045011
Bu(4)NBr
tetra-n-butylammonium dodecylsulfate
TETRABUTYLAMMONIUM(1+)
DTXCID1025011
TETRABUTYLAMMONIUM ION(1+)
tetrabutylazanium
CHEMBL1236196
UNII-CBU2X6BBJR
tetrabutyammonium
tetra-butylammonium
tetrabutyl ammonium
tetra butyl-ammonium
tetra-butyl ammonium
tetra(n-butyl)ammonium
tetra-n-butyl ammonium
Tetrabutylammonium(+1)
TETRABUTHYLAMMONIUM
TAA4
Bu4N+
tetra (n-butyl) ammonium
Tetrabutylammonium ion(+1)
SCHEMBL22384
BDBM50416487
STL194044
AKOS002258926
DB01851
NCGC00334822-01
BP-12611
NS00006689
AB00444480-02
Q27092979
InChI=1/C16H36N/c1-5-9-13-17(14-10-6-2,15-11-7-3)16-12-8-4/h5-16H2,1-4H3/q+