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Acetoin

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Identification
Molecular formula
C4H8O2
CAS number
513-86-0
IUPAC name
3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butan-2-one
State
State

At room temperature, acetoin is typically a liquid, though it can solidify at lower temperatures.

Melting point (Celsius)
15.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
288.20
Boiling point (Celsius)
148.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
421.60
General information
Molecular weight
88.11g/mol
Molar mass
88.1060g/mol
Density
0.9857g/cm3
Appearence

Acetoin is a clear, colorless liquid with a butter-like odor. It may appear slightly yellow when exposed to air due to oxidation.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butan-2-one

3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butan-2-one, commonly known as acetoin, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that make it quite versatile in various applications. Its solubility can be summarized as follows:

  • Water Solubility: Acetoin is soluble in water, which is attributed to its hydroxyl (-OH) functional group that forms hydrogen bonds with water molecules.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: It is also soluble in a variety of organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and benzene, facilitating its use in different chemical reactions and formulations.
  • Temperature Dependence: Its solubility can be affected by temperature; generally, the solubility in water increases with rising temperatures, enhancing its usability in warmer conditions.

In summary, the solubility of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butan-2-one is influenced by:

  • Presence of polar hydroxyl groups.
  • Interactions with solvents through hydrogen bonding.
  • Temperature variations affecting solubility in water.

This versatile compound's solubility in both polar and nonpolar environments broadens its applicability in the fields of food science, pharmaceuticals, and biochemical research.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butan-2-one

3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butan-2-one, commonly known as meso-3-hydroxy-3-methylbutan-2-one, is an intriguing compound that falls under the category of ketones. This compound has several interesting characteristics and applications:

  • Synthetic Versatility: It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds, making it essential in medicinal chemistry.
  • Flavor and Aroma: 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butan-2-one is often found in food and fragrance industries, contributing to the flavors of certain natural products.
  • Biochemical Relevance: This compound is biologically significant as it participates in metabolic pathways, specifically involving ketogenesis and gluconeogenesis.
  • Chiral Centers: While it appears achiral, the presence of a hydroxy group adds to its unique bonding capabilities, potentially leading to the formation of several stereoisomers under specific conditions.
  • Research Interest: As researchers continue to explore its properties, 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butan-2-one is a subject of studies focusing on its potential therapeutic uses and interactions in cellular processes.

As a chemistry student, studying this compound opens the door to understanding complex organic reactions and the roles of ketones in various fields, such as biochemistry and industrial chemistry. There's always something new to learn about this fascinating compound!

Synonyms
3-HYDROXY-3-METHYL-2-BUTANONE
115-22-0
3-hydroxy-3-methylbutan-2-one
2-Butanone, 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-
Methylacetoin
3-Methylacetoin
Dimethylacetylcarbinol
Acetyldimethylcarbinol
1-Hydroxy-1-methylethyl methyl ketone
2-Hydroxy-2-methyl-3-butanone
2-Methyl-2-hydroxybutan-3-one
3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butan-2-one
NSC 5576
EINECS 204-073-1
3-Hydroxy-3-methylbutanone
AI3-23404
DTXSID60870468
NSC-5576
3-Hydroxy-3-ethylbutanone
3Methylacetoin
NSC5576
MFCD00004460
2Hydroxy2methyl3butanone
2Methyl2hydroxybutan3one
YYL6RC5VC2
2Butanone, 3hydroxy3methyl
SCHEMBL124447
3-methyl-3-hydroxy-2-butanone
2-Methyl-2-hydroxy-3-butanone
2-methyl-2-hydroxy-butan-3-one
DTXCID80200384
CHEBI:179407
1Hydroxy1methylethyl methyl ketone
LMFA12000066
AKOS009157070
CS-W016644
H0471
EN300-60323
D88126
3-Hydroxy-3-methyl-2-butanone, 95% anhydrous basis
Z939661728