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Carnitine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C7H15NO3
CAS number
541-15-1
IUPAC name
trimethyl(4-oxobutyl)ammonium
State
State

Carnitine is typically solid at room temperature. It is stable under normal conditions but should be stored in a dry, cool place to prevent moisture absorption.

Melting point (Celsius)
197.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
470.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
225.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
498.15
General information
Molecular weight
161.21g/mol
Molar mass
161.2090g/mol
Density
1.1205g/cm3
Appearence

Carnitine is a white crystalline powder. It is hygroscopic and water-soluble, often appearing as a fine powder under standard conditions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Trimethyl(4-oxobutyl)ammonium (C7H15NO3)

Trimethyl(4-oxobutyl)ammonium is a quaternary ammonium compound characterized by its unique structure and functional groups. The solubility of this compound can be influenced by various factors, including:

  • Polarity: Due to the presence of the ammonium group, this compound tends to be more polar, which typically enhances solubility in polar solvents, such as water.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The potential for hydrogen bonding with water molecules can significantly affect solubility. Compounds that can donate or accept hydrogen bonds generally have increased solubility in aqueous environments.
  • Alkyl Chain Length: The hydrophobic character of the n-alkyl groups (in this case, the butyl component) may limit solubility in polar solvents. However, the overall balance between hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions is essential for determining solubility.

In general, such quaternary ammonium compounds are known to exhibit:

  • High solubility in aqueous solutions due to ionic interactions.
  • Variable solubility in organic solvents, often depending on the specific structure and substituents attached to the nitrogen.

In conclusion, while trimethyl(4-oxobutyl)ammonium is expected to have good solubility in water owing to its polar functional groups, the exact solubility can vary based on the conditions and the solvent environment. As with many compounds, empirical data and experimentation are essential to fully understand the solubility profile.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Trimethyl(4-oxobutyl)ammonium

Trimethyl(4-oxobutyl)ammonium is a fascinating quaternary ammonium compound that has garnered attention in various fields of science and industry. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Quaternary Ammonium Structure: The compound features a positively charged nitrogen atom bonded to three methyl groups and one 4-oxobutyl group, making it part of the quaternary ammonium family. This unique structure plays a significant role in its chemical behavior and interactions.
  • Applications: Due to its cationic nature, trimethyl(4-oxobutyl)ammonium is often employed as a surfactant and emulsifying agent. It finds applications in the formulation of personal care products, disinfectants, and antifungal agents.
  • Biocompatibility: Some studies suggest that compounds like trimethyl(4-oxobutyl)ammonium exhibit biocompatible properties, which makes them promising candidates for biomedical applications, such as drug delivery systems and tissue engineering.
  • Research Interest: The compound is a subject of research regarding its potential in organic synthesis and catalysis, demonstrating its utility beyond traditional uses.
  • Environmental Considerations: As with many chemical compounds, there is ongoing research into the environmental impact of trimethyl(4-oxobutyl)ammonium, particularly its biodegradability and behavior in aquatic ecosystems.

In the words of a prominent chemist, "The beauty of chemistry lies not only in the simplicity of its compounds but also in their complex interactions and the potential they hold for innovation."

Overall, trimethyl(4-oxobutyl)ammonium exemplifies the intricate relationship between chemical structure and its functional properties, making it a noteworthy subject of study in contemporary chemistry.

Synonyms
4-TRIMETHYLAMMONIOBUTANAL
gamma-Trimethylaminobutyraldehyde
trimethyl(4-oxobutyl)azanium
Trimethylaminobutyraldehyde
64595-66-0
trimethyl-(4-oxobutyl)ammonium
N,N,N-trimethyl-4-oxobutan-1-aminium
N,N,N-trimethyl-4-oxo-1-Butanaminium
1-Butanaminium, N,N,N-trimethyl-4-oxo-
trimethyl-(4-oxobutyl)azanium
CHEBI:18020
DTXSID20214844
4-(trimethylamino)butanal
gamma-Butyrobetaine aldehyde
4-(trimethylammonio)butanal
WUJ5N66V6E
SCHEMBL640712
4-N-trimethylaminobutyraldehyde
GTPL6604
DTXCID50137335
PD047002
NS00124065
C01149
Q27073961
2ZO