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Hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide

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Identification
Molecular formula
C16H34N2
CAS number
112-02-7
IUPAC name
trimethyl-[7-(trimethylammonio)heptyl]ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, trimethyl-[7-(trimethylammonio)heptyl]ammonium is typically in a solid state, appearing as either a powder or wax-like solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
232.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
505.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
345.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
618.65
General information
Molecular weight
364.37g/mol
Molar mass
364.3670g/mol
Density
1.0100g/cm3
Appearence

Trimethyl-[7-(trimethylammonio)heptyl]ammonium is typically a waxy solid that can appear white or off-white in color. It is often found in a powder or crystalline form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of trimethyl-[7-(trimethylammonio)heptyl]ammonium

The solubility of trimethyl-[7-(trimethylammonio)heptyl]ammonium is influenced by its unique molecular structure, which includes both hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions. This compound can typically exhibit the following solubility characteristics:

  • Solubility in Water: Due to the presence of quaternary ammonium groups, which are positively charged, this compound tends to be moderately soluble in water. The positive charge facilitates interaction with the polar water molecules.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: The heptyl chain contributes a hydrophobic character, making the compound more soluble in non-polar organic solvents. It is likely to dissolve well in solvents such as hexane or chloroform.
  • Temperature Dependence: Often, solubility can increase with temperature, as higher temperatures can enhance interactions between solute and solvent, particularly in organic solutions.
  • Influence of Ionic Strength: The presence of salts in solution can also affect solubility; an increase in ionic strength may either enhance or reduce solubility depending on the counterions present.

Understanding the solubility of trimethyl-[7-(trimethylammonio)heptyl]ammonium is crucial, particularly for its applications in various fields, as solubility impacts reactivity, transportation, and bioavailability.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Trimethyl-[7-(trimethylammonio)heptyl]ammonium

Trimethyl-[7-(trimethylammonio)heptyl]ammonium is a fascinating organic compound that showcases the complexity of quaternary ammonium compounds. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Structure: This compound features a long heptyl chain, which enhances hydrophobic interactions. The presence of multiple trimethylammonium groups contributes to its ionic nature, making it a classic example of a cationic surfactant.
  • Applications in Industry: Due to its surfactant properties, trimethyl-[7-(trimethylammonio)heptyl]ammonium finds applications in various fields:
    • In cosmetics, it can be used as a conditioning agent.
    • In pharmaceutical formulations, it can aid in drug delivery by enhancing solubility.
    • In water treatment, it helps in coagulation and flocculation processes.
  • Biological Significance: Quaternary ammonium compounds, like this one, can exhibit antimicrobial properties, making them useful in disinfectants and antiseptics. The structural features play a pivotal role in their effectiveness.
  • Environmental Considerations: As with many surfactants, the environmental impact of trimethyl-[7-(trimethylammonio)heptyl]ammonium is an area of research. The biodegradability and potential toxicity of such compounds are crucial factors to consider in their application.

In the words of renowned chemist J. P. Long, "The beauty of organic chemistry lies in the infinite possibilities offered by functional groups and molecular frameworks." Trimethyl-[7-(trimethylammonio)heptyl]ammonium exemplifies this beauty with its diverse applications and intriguing chemistry.


This compound is a reminder of the significant role that synthetic organic compounds play in our daily lives and their potential for innovation in various scientific domains.

Synonyms
Heptamethonium
N,N,N,N',N',N'-Hexamethyl-1,7-heptanediaminium
6810-45-3
trimethyl-[7-(trimethylazaniumyl)heptyl]azanium
DTXSID40872864
1,7-Heptanediaminium, N,N,N,N',N',N'-hexamethyl-
Bis-1,7-(trimethylammonium)hepyl Dibromide
Heptonium
38Z3Q6Z8XD
SCHEMBL8208718
CHEMBL1199113
DTXCID20820424
Heptamethylenebis[trimethylammonium]
Ammonium, heptamethylenebis[trimethyl-
1,7-Heptanediaminium, N1,N1,N1,N7,N7,N7-hexamethyl-