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Carnitine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C7H15NO3
CAS number
541-15-1
IUPAC name
trimethyl-[3-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)propyl]ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, carnitine is in a solid state. It is typically found in its ionic form as a zwitterion in biological conditions, balancing its positive and negative charges internally.

Melting point (Celsius)
197.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
470.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
167.20
Boiling point (Kelvin)
440.35
General information
Molecular weight
161.96g/mol
Molar mass
161.9610g/mol
Density
0.8113g/cm3
Appearence

Carnitine appears as a white crystalline powder. It is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air, and is typically odorless.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Trimethyl-[3-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)propyl]ammonium

Trimethyl-[3-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)propyl]ammonium is a quaternary ammonium compound known for its unique solubility characteristics. It is primarily soluble in water, thanks to the presence of the positively charged ammonium group, which interacts favorably with polar solvents.

Factors Influencing Solubility:

  • Ionization: The quaternary ammonium part contributes significantly to the ionization in aqueous solutions, enhancing solubility.
  • Hydrophobic Interactions: The hydrophobic propyl chain may affect solubility to some extent, but the overall solubility remains high due to the ammonium's polarity.
  • Temperature: Increased temperatures can generally improve solubility for many organic compounds, and this compound is no exception.

It is also important to note: “The extent of solubility might vary depending on the specific conditions such as pH and presence of other solutes.” In non-polar solvents, the solubility of this compound tends to decrease due to its polar nature, making it less favorable for dissolution in such environments. Overall, its remarkable solubility in aqueous media positions it favorably for applications in various chemical and pharmaceutical fields.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Trimethyl-[3-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)propyl]ammonium

Trimethyl-[3-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)propyl]ammonium is a fascinating compound that has gained attention in the world of chemistry for various reasons. Here are some noteworthy points:

  • Structural Versatility: This compound features a quaternary ammonium structure, which allows it to interact with a variety of biological molecules, making it an interesting subject for medicinal chemistry.
  • Potential Applications: The unique pyrrolidine ring present in its structure is known for its role in numerous pharmaceutical compounds. This opens avenues for investigations into drug synthesis and development.
  • Chemical Behavior: The presence of the trimethylammonium group enhances the compound’s solubility in polar solvents, which is essential for its reactivity and interaction with other chemical species.
  • Biochemical Relevance: Compounds containing quaternary ammonium features are often utilized in biological systems, serving as surfactants or antimicrobial agents, thereby understating their significance in biochemistry.
  • Research Value: Recent studies have focused on the potential of trimethyl-[3-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)propyl]ammonium in the synthesis of tailored materials, showcasing its relevance in advanced materials chemistry.

In summary, trimethyl-[3-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)propyl]ammonium is more than just a compound; it is a gateway to understanding the intricate world of organic and medicinal chemistry. Its diverse functional properties make it a compound of interest for both academic research and practical applications, reinforcing the importance of examining even the lesser-known chemical entities.