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Salicylic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C7H6O3
CAS number
69-72-7
IUPAC name
2-hydroxy-4-methyl-benzoic acid
State
State
Salicylic acid is a solid at room temperature. It is often used in its solid, powdered form for various applications, especially in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
Melting point (Celsius)
159.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
432.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
211.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
484.15
General information
Molecular weight
138.12g/mol
Molar mass
138.1210g/mol
Density
1.4400g/cm3
Appearence

Salicylic acid appears as a white crystalline solid. It is typically found in powder or small needle-like crystal form. It is relatively stable under normal conditions but can sublimate.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-hydroxy-4-methyl-benzoic acid (C7H6O3)

2-hydroxy-4-methyl-benzoic acid, also known as salicylic acid, exhibits interesting solubility properties influenced by its functional groups and molecular structure. Here are some key points:

  • Water solubility: This compound is moderately soluble in water. Its solubility is around 0.2 g/100 mL at room temperature, which indicates some ability to interact with the polar water molecules due to the presence of the hydroxyl (-OH) group.
  • Solvent influence: 2-hydroxy-4-methyl-benzoic acid is more soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, methanol, and acetone, demonstrating a preference for non-polar environments when compared to highly polar solvents.
  • pH dependence: The solubility of this compound can vary with pH levels. In a more alkaline environment, the carboxylic acid group can deprotonate, enhancing solubility due to the formation of anionic species that readily interact with water.
  • Temperature effects: Higher temperatures generally increase solubility, encouraging dissolution of solid particles into any solvent.

In summary, while 2-hydroxy-4-methyl-benzoic acid is not highly soluble in water, its solubility can be significantly influenced by factors such as solvent choice, pH levels, and temperature. Understanding these aspects is crucial for applications in pharmaceuticals and chemical synthesis.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-Hydroxy-4-Methyl-Benzoic Acid

2-Hydroxy-4-methyl-benzoic acid, more commonly known as gentisic acid, is a fascinating compound with a variety of applications and properties that may pique the interest of both chemists and researchers alike.

Key Attributes

  • Natural Occurrence: This compound is found in several natural sources, including certain plants, where it plays a crucial role in metabolic processes.
  • Biological Significance: Gentisic acid is known for its potential health benefits, with studies suggesting antioxidant properties that could contribute to health and wellness.
  • Synthetic Applications: The compound is often utilized in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and biochemicals, highlighting its importance in medicinal chemistry.

Noteworthy Reactions

The reactivity of 2-hydroxy-4-methyl-benzoic acid allows it to participate in numerous organic transformations, such as:

  • Esterification: This reaction can lead to the formation of gentisyl esters, which might be advantageous for specific applications.
  • Acylation Reactions: The hydroxyl group can be acylated to produce more complex aromatic compounds.

Cultural Significance

In addition to its chemical properties, gentisic acid has also been a subject in cultural contexts, where it has inspired various studies in the fields of botany and biochemistry, emphasizing the vital role of natural products in science.

Overall, 2-hydroxy-4-methyl-benzoic acid serves as an intriguing example of how chemical compounds can bridge various disciplines and contribute to advancements in both scientific research and medicinal applications.

Synonyms
4-METHYLSALICYLIC ACID
50-85-1
2-Hydroxy-4-methylbenzoic acid
m-Cresotic acid
m-Cresotinic acid
2,4-Cresotic acid
2-Hydroxy-p-toluic acid
m-Homosalicylic acid
4-Methyl-2-hydroxybenzoic acid
Benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-4-methyl-
gamma-Cresotic acid
4-Methylsalicyclic acid
.gamma.-Cresotic acid
4-methyl salicylic acid
4-Methylsalicylate
EINECS 200-068-3
MFCD00002454
NSC 16634
BRN 2208140
UNII-4H0106V3D3
CHEBI:20450
2-Hydroxy-4-methyl-benzoic acid
AI3-25424
NSC-16634
M-CRESOTIC ACID [MI]
4-methyl-2-hydroxobenzoic acid
DTXSID30198166
4-10-00-00617 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
NSC16634
4H0106V3D3
m-Cresotinate
g-Cresotate
m-Homosalicylate
g-Cresotic acid
2,4-Cresotate
4-methysalicylic acid
bmse000624
4-methyl-2-hydroxybenzoate
2-Hydroxy-4-methylbenzoicacid
SCHEMBL168869
4-Methylsalicylic acid, 99%
CHEMBL1650625
DTXCID60120657
AC7810
s5519
AKOS000120850
CCG-266222
CS-W009192
FM25564
FS-1791
AC-11661
BP-12491
HY-78144
PD088225
SY001921
DB-013337
NS00022260
EN300-21508
Q15634118
4-Methylsalicylic acid, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 99%
Z104500502
2-Hydroxy-4-methylbenzoic acid;2,4-Cresotic acid;2-Hydroxy-p-toluic acid