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Carnitine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C11H19NO3
CAS number
541-15-1
IUPAC name
trimethyl-[4-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)butyl]ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, carnitine is typically a solid and is often provided or sold as a supplement in capsules or powder form for its applications in health and wellness.

Melting point (Celsius)
197.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
470.20
Boiling point (Celsius)
176.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
449.20
General information
Molecular weight
161.21g/mol
Molar mass
161.2100g/mol
Density
0.6247g/cm3
Appearence

Carnitine appears as a white crystalline powder that is hygroscopic. It is usually odorless and often used in its salt forms like L-carnitine or acetyl-L-carnitine, which can exhibit similar physical characteristics.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Trimethyl-[4-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)butyl]ammonium

Trimethyl-[4-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)butyl]ammonium is a quaternary ammonium compound that exhibits unique solubility characteristics. Generally, the solubility of such compounds can be influenced by multiple factors:

  • Polarity: The presence of polar functional groups, like the 2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl moiety, typically enhances solubility in polar solvents such as water.
  • Chain Length: The butyl chain can affect the hydrophobicity, and longer alkyl chains generally decrease water solubility while increasing solubility in organic solvents.
  • Ionization: Since this compound contains a quaternary ammonium group, it is permanently charged, which generally favors solubility in polar environments.

Therefore, you might expect trimethyl-[4-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)butyl]ammonium to be:

  1. Soluble in water due to its charge and polar functional groups.
  2. Less soluble in non-polar solvents due to the presence of the hydrophilic quaternary ammonium portion.

In summary, the solubility of trimethyl-[4-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)butyl]ammonium is largely determined by its molecular structure, making it soluble in polar solvents while showing limited solubility in non-polar environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Trimethyl-[4-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)butyl]ammonium

Trimethyl-[4-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)butyl]ammonium is a fascinating compound due to its unique structure and potential applications in various fields. Here are some noteworthy insights:

  • Quaternary Ammonium Compound: This compound belongs to a class known as quaternary ammonium compounds, which are characterized by a positively charged nitrogen atom connected to four carbon-containing groups. This structural feature often enhances its activity as a surfactant and antimicrobial agent.
  • Potential in Drug Delivery: The incorporation of a pyrrolidinone moiety (the 2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl) in the structure offers intriguing possibilities for drug delivery systems. This can help in targeting specific tissues or cells, making it a candidate for designing advanced therapeutic agents.
  • Applications in Catalysis: The compound may find uses in catalytic processes, particularly in organic synthesis, where quaternary ammonium salts can act as phase transfer catalysts or in promoting reactions due to their ability to solubilize reactants.
  • Surface Activity: Compounds like this are often known for their surface-active properties, which means they can reduce surface tension in liquids, making them useful in detergent formulations and industrial cleaning products.

As you delve into the study of Trimethyl-[4-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)butyl]ammonium, consider how its unique molecular architecture could lead to innovative applications. The synergy between chemistry and practical utility provides an exciting landscape for research and exploration in both academic and industrial contexts!