Skip to main content

Mercaptoacetic acid

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C2H4O2S
CAS number
68-11-1
IUPAC name
2-oxo-3-sulfanyl-propanoic acid
State
State

Mercaptoacetic acid is in a liquid state under standard conditions at room temperature. It is known for its high volatility and pungent odor. The liquid is miscible with water and is highly soluble in many organic solvents.

Melting point (Celsius)
-16.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
256.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
96.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
369.15
General information
Molecular weight
92.12g/mol
Molar mass
92.1190g/mol
Density
1.3260g/cm3
Appearence

Mercaptoacetic acid is typically a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a strong and unpleasant odor. The liquid is clear and oily in nature, and it can fume slightly in the air.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-oxo-3-sulfanyl-propanoic acid (C2H4O2S)

2-oxo-3-sulfanyl-propanoic acid, also known as a thiol compound, exhibits some interesting solubility characteristics. Its structure features both polar functional groups and a sulfur atom, which influences its behavior in various solvents.

Key Points on Solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Due to the presence of –COOH groups, 2-oxo-3-sulfanyl-propanoic acid is expected to be soluble in water. Carboxylic acids generally interact favorably with water molecules.
  • Polar Solvents: This compound may also dissolve well in other polar solvents, enhancing its applicability in various chemical reactions and formulations.
  • Non-Polar Solvents: Conversely, its solubility in non-polar solvents is likely limited, given the hydrophilic nature of its functional groups.

In summary, the solubility of 2-oxo-3-sulfanyl-propanoic acid can be described as:

  1. High in water and polar solvents.
  2. Low in non-polar solvents.

Understanding these solubility properties is crucial for applications in biochemistry and organic synthesis, where solvent choice can significantly impact reaction outcomes.

Interesting facts

Exploring 2-oxo-3-sulfanyl-propanoic acid

2-oxo-3-sulfanyl-propanoic acid, commonly known in the scientific community for its unique sulfur-containing structure, is an intriguing compound that demonstrates the intersection of biology and chemistry. Here are some fascinating aspects about this compound:

  • Biological Relevance: This compound has been investigated for its potential role in biological processes, particularly in metabolic pathways where sulfur-containing amino acids play a vital role.
  • Functional Groups: The presence of both a keto group and a thiol group makes it a versatile participant in various chemical reactions, including nucleophilic substitutions and oxidation-reduction reactions.
  • Potential Applications: Researchers are exploring the use of 2-oxo-3-sulfanyl-propanoic acid in pharmaceuticals, where it may serve as a precursor for the synthesis of bioactive molecules.
  • Synthesis Considerations: The synthesis of this compound often involves carefully controlled chemical reactions, emphasizing the importance of both reagent choice and reaction conditions to obtain high yields.
  • Environmental Chemistry: As with many sulfur-containing compounds, it could have implications in environmental studies, particularly in understanding sulfide dynamics and their effect on ecosystems.

In conclusion, 2-oxo-3-sulfanyl-propanoic acid is more than just a string of atoms; it represents a wealth of possibilities in scientific research and practical applications. As we continue to unlock its secrets, this compound could pave the way for novel discoveries in chemistry and biochemistry.

Synonyms
3-mercaptopyruvic acid
2464-23-5
2-oxo-3-sulfanylpropanoic acid
3-mercaptopyruvate
beta-mercaptopyruvate
mercaptopyruvate
Mercaptopyruvic acid
beta-Thiopyruvic acid
propanoic acid, 3-mercapto-2-oxo-
3-Mercapto-2-oxopropanoic acid
Pyruvic acid, 3-mercapto-
beta-Mercaptopyruvic acid
beta-thiopyruvate
5Z1F5OW4YB
BRN 1747058
.BETA.-THIOPYRUVIC ACID
PYRUVIC ACID, MERCAPTO-
CHEBI:16208
DTXSID20862960
4-03-00-01936 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
3-MERCAPTO-2-OXOPROPIONIC ACID
3-mercapto-pyruvic acid
UNII-5Z1F5OW4YB
3-MERCAPTO-PYRUVATE
thiopyruvate
2-oxo-3-sulfanylpropanoicacid
SCHEMBL188201
GTPL5118
DTXCID90198809
beta-3-mercapto-2-oxo-propanoate
OJOLFAIGOXZBCI-UHFFFAOYSA-N
beta-3-mercapto-2-oxo-propanoic acid
AKOS006223734
PD051014
Pyruvic acid, mercapto- (6CI,7CI,8CI)
Propanoic acid, 3-mercapto-2-oxo- (9CI)
C00957
EN300-1166901
Q4634163