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Cinnamic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C9H8O2
CAS number
140-10-3
IUPAC name
3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enoic acid
State
State

Cinnamic acid is typically found as a solid at room temperature, due to its crystalline nature and melting point above ambient temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
133.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
406.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
300.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
573.15
General information
Molecular weight
148.16g/mol
Molar mass
148.1570g/mol
Density
1.2470g/cm3
Appearence

Cinnamic acid appears as a white crystalline compound. It has a characteristic odor reminiscent of cinnamon or balsams, which is due to its presence in cinnamon oil.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enoic acid

3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enoic acid, also known as caffeic acid, exhibits intriguing solubility characteristics that can be influenced by various factors.

Water Solubility

This compound is known to be moderately soluble in water, which can be attributed to its ability to form hydrogen bonds through its hydroxyl (-OH) groups. Some important points about its water solubility include:

  • The presence of the hydroxyl functional group enhances solubility.
  • Solubility can be affected by temperature; higher temperatures generally increase solubility.

Solubility in Organic Solvents

In addition to its water solubility, 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enoic acid is also soluble in various organic solvents. Notable examples include:

  • Ethyl alcohol (ethanol)
  • DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide)
  • Acetone

This ability to dissolve in both polar (water) and non-polar (organic solvents) environments highlights its versatility as a compound in different chemical contexts.

Influencing Factors

The overall solubility can be influenced by factors such as:

  • pH of the solution: The ionization state of the carboxylic acid group can change with pH, affecting solubility.
  • Concentration: At higher concentrations, solubility may approach saturation.

In summary, 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enoic acid demonstrates a unique balance of solubility in both water and organic solvents, making it a significant compound in biochemical and industrial applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enoic Acid

3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enoic acid, commonly referred to as caffeic acid, is an intriguing compound with a range of notable properties and applications:

  • Natural Occurrence: Caffeic acid is widely found in various plants, particularly in coffee beans, fruits, and vegetables. It plays a significant role in the plant's defense mechanisms against harmful pathogens.
  • Health Benefits: Extensive research suggests that this compound possesses antioxidant properties. It is believed to help combat oxidative stress, therefore supporting overall health and potentially decreasing the risk of chronic diseases.
  • Culinary Uses: Besides its health benefits, caffeic acid contributes to the flavor profile of many foods, notably in the fermentation process of beverages like wine.
  • Biochemical Interactions: Caffeic acid is known to engage in various biochemical pathways within the body, influencing the metabolism of certain compounds and enhancing anti-inflammatory responses.
  • Potential Therapeutic Applications: Ongoing studies are investigating its efficacy in treating conditions such as inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and even certain types of cancer, making it a compound of growing interest in medicinal chemistry.

The exploration of 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enoic acid continues to reveal new potentials in various fields, including nutrition, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetic formulations. As researchers delve deeper, the versatile benefits of this compound might lead to groundbreaking applications that harness its natural properties for improved health outcomes.

Synonyms
4-trans-4-Hydroxycinnamic acid
4-hydroxy cinnamic acid
CHEBI:36090
2-Propenoic acid, 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-, (2Z)-
4hydroxycinnamic acid
p-hydroxy cinnamic acid
4- hydroxycinnamic acid
4-hy droxycinnamic acid
4-hydroxy-cinnamic acid
Enamine_005378
Epitope ID:116879
DTXSID6064660
NGSWKAQJJWESNS-UHFFFAOYSA-N
3-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-acrylic acid
MFCD00064995
(Z)-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acrylic acid
AKOS017269003
SY015618
SY020906
SY027398
DB-055828
DB-092338
NS00004354
Q27104329