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Gluconic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H12O7
CAS number
526-95-4
IUPAC name
3,4,5,6-tetrahydroxyhexanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, gluconic acid is typically found as an aqueous solution or syrupy liquid due to its high solubility in water. The pure compound is a white crystalline powder.

Melting point (Celsius)
131.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
404.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
130.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
403.15
General information
Molecular weight
196.16g/mol
Molar mass
196.1560g/mol
Density
1.5400g/cm3
Appearence

Gluconic acid is a white crystalline powder, when in its pure form. It is highly soluble in water and appears as a syrupy liquid when dissolved. As an acid solution, it is clear or slightly yellowish in color.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3,4,5,6-tetrahydroxyhexanoic acid (C6H12O7)

3,4,5,6-tetrahydroxyhexanoic acid is a compound characterized by its multiple hydroxyl groups which greatly influence its solubility. This compound is noted for:

  • High Solubility in Water: Due to the presence of four hydroxyl (-OH) groups, 3,4,5,6-tetrahydroxyhexanoic acid is extremely soluble in water. The ability of these hydroxyl groups to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules enhances its solvation.
  • Polar Nature: Being a polar molecule, it readily interacts with the polar solvent (water), leading to its remarkable dissolution properties.
  • Limited Solubility in Organic Solvents: While it is highly soluble in water, its solubility in non-polar organic solvents is minimal. This trend is common for polar compounds, which do not interact favorably with non-polar solvents.

This compound's solubility behavior exemplifies the general principle that compounds with multiple functional groups capable of hydrogen bonding tend to be more soluble in polar solvents, particularly water. In the words of J. P. D. Smith, "Solubility is often a reflection of the intermolecular forces at play." Thus, the water-soluble nature of 3,4,5,6-tetrahydroxyhexanoic acid makes it an interesting subject for various applications, including its utility in biochemical processes.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3,4,5,6-tetrahydroxyhexanoic acid

3,4,5,6-tetrahydroxyhexanoic acid, often referred to in scientific literature as a multifunctional organic compound, is noteworthy for several reasons:

  • Complex Structure: This compound features four hydroxyl (–OH) groups attached to a hexanoic acid backbone, providing it with unique properties that are distinct from simpler fatty acids.
  • Natural Occurrence: It is believed to be involved in various biochemical processes within living organisms, potentially playing roles in metabolic pathways.
  • Potential Applications: The multifunctional nature of 3,4,5,6-tetrahydroxyhexanoic acid opens up possibilities for its use in:
    • Biotechnology, particularly in the development of bio-based materials.
    • Pharmaceutical industries, where it could serve as a building block for drug synthesis.
    • Nutrition, as various studies explore its potential benefits as a dietary supplement.
  • Research Interest: Ongoing studies aim to elucidate its structure-activity relationships, which may lead to the discovery of new derivatives with enhanced properties.

As a chemical scientist or a chemistry student, delving into the characteristics and potential applications of 3,4,5,6-tetrahydroxyhexanoic acid can spark exciting discussions about its role in both nature and industry. The quote, "Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished," resonates well with the intricate and often slow processes involved in understanding complex compounds like this one.

Exploring compounds like 3,4,5,6-tetrahydroxyhexanoic acid offers a glimpse into the fascinating interplay between chemistry and life, pushing the boundaries of our knowledge and innovation!

Synonyms
2-deoxyhexonic acid
6477-49-2
SCHEMBL13430947
DTXSID201315751