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Phenethyltrimethylammonium

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Identification
Molecular formula
C11H18N
CAS number
42198-00-9
IUPAC name
trimethyl(2-phenylethyl)ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, phenethyltrimethylammonium is usually encountered as a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
109.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
382.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
185.10
Boiling point (Kelvin)
458.25
General information
Molecular weight
179.30g/mol
Molar mass
179.2960g/mol
Density
0.8981g/cm3
Appearence

Phenethyltrimethylammonium is typically a white crystalline solid at room temperature. It has a characteristic odor, often resembling that of aromatic compounds due to its phenyl group.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Trimethyl(2-phenylethyl)ammonium

Trimethyl(2-phenylethyl)ammonium exhibits unique solubility characteristics due to its structural properties and the presence of both polar and nonpolar elements. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Polar and Nonpolar Interactions: The trimethylammonium group is highly polar, which can enhance solubility in polar solvents such as water.
  • Hydrophobic Interactions: The phenethyl moiety introduces a hydrophobic character that may reduce solubility in highly polar solvents, making this compound more soluble in organic solvents like ethanol or dichloromethane.
  • Temperature Influences: As with many organic compounds, solubility can increase with temperature, allowing for greater dissolution in solvents when heated.
  • Concentration Factors: The solubility can also be affected by the concentration of both the compound and the solvent, where high concentrations of trimethyl(2-phenylethyl)ammonium may lead to precipitation or saturation points.

In conclusion, understanding the solubility of trimethyl(2-phenylethyl)ammonium requires consideration of its dual nature as polar and nonpolar, as well as external factors such as temperature and concentration. This duality presents a fascinating challenge for chemists in both synthesis and practical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Trimethyl(2-phenylethyl)ammonium

Trimethyl(2-phenylethyl)ammonium is an intriguing quaternary ammonium compound that plays an important role in various chemical and biological processes. Here are some notable points about this fascinating compound:

  • Quaternary Structure: This compound features a nitrogen atom bonded to three methyl groups and a phenylethyl side chain, making it a quaternary ammonium salt. This unique structure contributes to its diverse range of properties and applications.
  • Biological Significance: As a quaternary ammonium compound, it has potential uses in pharmacology and biochemistry, especially as a precursor in synthesizing various bioactive molecules.
  • Surface Activity: Compounds like trimethyl(2-phenylethyl)ammonium often exhibit surfactant properties, making them valuable in formulating detergents, emulsifiers, and dispersants.
  • Charge Characteristics: The positively charged nitrogen atom in trimethyl(2-phenylethyl)ammonium allows for distinct interactions with other charged species, which can have implications in drug delivery systems and cellular interactions.
  • Versatile Synthetic Routes: This compound can be synthesized through various methods, allowing chemists to explore the modification of the phenylethyl group to tune the compound's properties for specific applications.

As we delve deeper into the world of chemical compounds, the study of trimethyl(2-phenylethyl)ammonium exemplifies how even small changes in molecular structure can lead to diverse functionalities and applications. The exploration of such compounds not only broadens our understanding of organic chemistry but also paves the way for innovations in pharmaceuticals and materials science.

Synonyms
SAMPL5, OA-G5
SCHEMBL1637452
CHEMBL2009686
BDBM197313
NCI60_001539