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Strychnine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C21H22N2O2
CAS number
57-24-9
IUPAC name
(4aR,5aS,8aR,15bR)-4a,5,5a,7,8,13a,15,15a,15b,16-decahydro-2H-4,6-methanoindolo[3,2,1-ij]oxepino[2,3,4-de]pyrrolo[2,3-h]quinolin-14-one
State
State

At room temperature, strychnine exists as a solid. It is typically found in crystalline or powder form.

Melting point (Celsius)
286.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
559.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
285.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
558.15
General information
Molecular weight
334.43g/mol
Molar mass
334.4340g/mol
Density
1.3600g/cm3
Appearence

Strychnine is a colorless crystalline alkaloid with a bitter taste. It often appears as a powder or in crystalline form and is sparingly soluble in water.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (4aR,5aS,8aR,15bR)-4a,5,5a,7,8,13a,15,15a,15b,16-decahydro-2H-4,6-methanoindolo[3,2,1-ij]oxepino[2,3,4-de]pyrrolo[2,3-h]quinolin-14-one (C21H22N2O2)

The solubility of this compound is influenced by its complex molecular structure and the presence of functional groups. When discussing its solubility, several aspects should be considered:

  • Polarity: Compounds with significant polar functional groups tend to have higher solubility in polar solvents like water. Conversely, non-polar regions of the molecule may lead to lower solubility in these solvents.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The ability of the molecule to participate in hydrogen bonding can enhance solubility in aqueous environments. Look for sites on the molecule that may form hydrogen bonds, increasing interaction with water.
  • Molecular Weight: Generally, as molecular weight increases, solubility in water tends to decrease. This compound's relatively moderate molecular weight (C21H22N2O2) is a key factor in evaluating its solubility.
  • Solvent Compatibility: The choice of solvent is crucial. While it may have limited solubility in water, there is potential for greater solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO).

Ultimately, understanding the solubility of this compound requires both empirical data and theoretical evaluations. Experiments could reveal specific solubility limits, providing a clearer picture of its behavior in various environments.

Interesting facts

Understanding the Unique Structure of Decahydro-2H-4,6-methanoindolo[3,2,1-ij]oxepino[2,3,4-de]pyrrolo[2,3-h]quinolin-14-one

This multi-faceted compound, known scientifically by its complex name, presents an intriguing example within organic chemistry, particularly in the realm of polycyclic structures. The compound features a unique assembly of natural and synthetic patterns, which attribute to its distinctive behavior and potential applications.

Structural Highlights

Some notable aspects of its structure are:

  • Polycyclic Framework: The compound comprises several interconnected rings, a characteristic that often contributes to the stability and reactivity of similar compounds.
  • Stereochemistry: The specified stereochemistry (4aR, 5aS, 8aR, 15bR) plays a critical role in determining the compound's reactivity and interactions with biological systems.
  • Functional Groups: The presence of oxepine and pyrrolo motifs prolongs the compounds' investigation, as these groups are often linked to notable pharmacological activity.

Potential Applications

Due to its unique structure, researchers have been exploring various potential applications, including:

  • Pharmaceuticals: Compounds featuring oxepine and pyrrole functionalities have been investigated for their bioactive properties, including anticancer and antimicrobial activities.
  • Material Science: The stability imparted by such intricate fused-ring systems is of interest for developing new materials with enhanced mechanical properties.

A Final Thought

In the words of a noted chemist, "The beauty of chemistry lies not just in the reactions but the stories told by structures themselves." It is crucial for students and researchers alike to appreciate how such complex molecules encapsulate not only scientific intrigue but also the potential for innovative breakthroughs in various fields.

Synonyms
Strychnin
3h-strychnine
Prestwick_34
CHEMBL33495