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L-ascorbic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H8O6
CAS number
50-81-7
IUPAC name
(2R,3R,3aR,6aR)-2,3,6-trihydroxy-3,3a,6,6a-tetrahydro-2H-furo[3,2-b]furan-5-one
State
State
L-ascorbic acid is typically found as a solid at room temperature. It is a stable compound in its powder form but is susceptible to degradation when exposed to air, heat, and light.
Melting point (Celsius)
190.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
463.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
552.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
825.15
General information
Molecular weight
176.12g/mol
Molar mass
176.1240g/mol
Density
1.6940g/cm3
Appearence

At room temperature, ascorbic acid appears as a white or slightly yellow crystalline powder. It is often observed to be water soluble, and solutions of ascorbic acid are clear and can range from colorless to a slight yellow tint. The compound may darken slightly upon exposure to air and light.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (2R,3R,3aR,6aR)-2,3,6-trihydroxy-3,3a,6,6a-tetrahydro-2H-furo[3,2-b]furan-5-one

The compound (2R,3R,3aR,6aR)-2,3,6-trihydroxy-3,3a,6,6a-tetrahydro-2H-furo[3,2-b]furan-5-one, with the chemical formula C6H8O6, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics. Its solubility is influenced by several factors:

  • Polarity: Being a polyol with multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups, the compound is highly polar, which enhances its ability to interact with polar solvents like water.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The presence of three hydroxyl groups allows the compound to form strong hydrogen bonds with water, facilitating better solubility.
  • Solvent Interactions: It is likely to have limited solubility in non-polar solvents such as hexane due to poor interaction capabilities.
  • Temperature Dependency: Like many compounds, its solubility may increase with temperature, indicating that it may dissolve better in warm solvents.

In summary, one could expect the compound to be soluble in aqueous solutions but less soluble in organic solvents. This characteristic could make it particularly useful in contexts where aqueous solubility is advantageous, such as in certain chemical reactions or in formulations. As a note, solubility data can vary with different experimental conditions, so laboratory evaluation is necessary for concrete determinations.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (2R,3R,3aR,6aR)-2,3,6-trihydroxy-3,3a,6,6a-tetrahydro-2H-furo[3,2-b]furan-5-one

This intriguing compound, known as a member of the furofuran family, boasts a unique molecular architecture that is both fascinating and complex. Here are some key highlights:

  • Natural Occurrence: This compound is often found in various plants and has been associated with certain traditional medicinal practices.
  • Potential Health Benefits: Research suggests that derivatives of compounds like this one may exhibit antioxidant effects, making them valuable in the study of health and disease.
  • Synthetic Pathways: Scientists are keenly interested in the synthesis of this compound, exploring various methods to create it in the laboratory, which can involve intricate strategies in organic chemistry.
  • Structural Complexity: The presence of multiple hydroxyl groups contributes to its potential reactivity, making it a subject of investigation in synthetic and medicinal chemistry.
  • Pharmacological Interest: There is ongoing research focused on the pharmacological properties of this compound and its potential applications in drug discovery.

As a chemistry student or scientist, you might find the study of such compounds reveals essential insights into both the natural world and the development of new therapeutic agents. One might say, "The beauty of organic chemistry lies in the intricate dance of atoms and functional groups." This compound embodies that beauty!

Synonyms
(2R,3R,3aR,6aR)-2,3,6-trihydroxy-3,3a,6,6a-tetrahydro-2H-furo[3,2-b]furan-5-one
63-29-6
SCHEMBL71618
CHEMBL2107425
OGLCQHRZUSEXNB-UAPNVWQMSA-N