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Carnitine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C7H15NO3
CAS number
541-15-1
IUPAC name
trimethyl-[2-[4-[2-(trimethylammonio)ethoxyimino]butylideneamino]oxyethyl]ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, carnitine is a solid. It is not volatile and does not evaporate into the air under ambient conditions.

Melting point (Celsius)
197.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
470.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
228.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
501.15
General information
Molecular weight
161.21g/mol
Molar mass
161.2110g/mol
Density
1.1203g/cm3
Appearence

Carnitine is typically a white crystalline powder. It is hygroscopic in nature, readily absorbing moisture from the environment. As a crystalline solid, it is often characterized by its purity, with crystals reflecting light leading to a sometimes shiny or sparkling appearance.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Trimethyl-[2-[4-[2-(trimethylammonio)ethoxyimino]butylideneamino]oxyethyl]ammonium

The solubility of trimethyl-[2-[4-[2-(trimethylammonio)ethoxyimino]butylideneamino]oxyethyl]ammonium can often pose intriguing questions due to its complex structure. It is essential to consider various factors that influence its solubility:

  • Ionic Nature: Being a quaternary ammonium compound, it possesses a permanent positive charge, which tends to enhance its solubility in polar solvents, particularly water.
  • Hydrophilic Characteristics: The presence of ethoxy and imino groups in its structure contributes to hydrophilicity, further supporting solubility in water-based solutions.
  • Concentration Dynamics: Solubility can be concentration-dependent; as concentration increases, factors such as supersaturation may play a role.
  • Temperature Influence: Higher temperatures generally increase solubility for most compounds, potentially enabling more applications in different environments.

In essence, one might say, "the interplay between molecular structure and solvent properties can significantly dictate solubility." This compound, with its intricate configuration, highlights the fascinating relationship between composition and solubility behavior, making it a noteworthy subject for both theoretical and practical explorations in chemical science.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Trimethyl-[2-[4-[2-(trimethylammonio)ethoxyimino]butylideneamino]oxyethyl]ammonium

Trimethyl-[2-[4-[2-(trimethylammonio)ethoxyimino]butylideneamino]oxyethyl]ammonium is a fascinating compound with a range of applications in chemistry and biochemistry. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Functionality: This compound is notable for its role as a surfactant, where its unique molecular structure allows it to reduce surface tension in systems, making it invaluable in various formulations such as detergents and emulsifiers.
  • Ionic Nature: As a quaternary ammonium compound, it possesses a positively charged nitrogen atom, which enhances its solubility in polar media and makes it effective in biological settings.
  • Biocompatibility: Some derivatives of this compound have shown potential in drug delivery systems due to their ability to enhance the permeability of biological membranes, a crucial aspect in the development of therapeutic agents.
  • Research Applications: In medicinal chemistry, it may be involved in the study of anti-cancer agents, targeting tumor cells more effectively due to its structural properties.
  • Structural Complexity: The intricate arrangement of its components, including the trimethyl groups and ethoxyimino interactions, makes it a compound of interest in advancing our understanding of molecular behavior in complex systems.

As a compound with a rich chemical profile, it inspires ongoing research, particularly in the areas of pharmaceuticals, material science, and biotechnology. The potential applications of such compounds continue to expand as scientists explore more about their properties and interactions.