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Sorbitol

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H14O6
CAS number
50-70-4
IUPAC name
5-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2,3,4-triol
State
State

At room temperature, sorbitol is typically a solid, appearing as a hygroscopic powder or crystalline substance.

Melting point (Celsius)
95.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
368.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
296.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
569.15
General information
Molecular weight
182.17g/mol
Molar mass
182.1720g/mol
Density
1.4900g/cm3
Appearence

Sorbitol, also known as glucitol, is a white, crystalline powder, or a clear, colorless liquid. It is commonly found as a solid with a sweet taste. In its liquid form, it appears as a viscous syrup that is typically clear and odorless or may have a slight, characteristic scent.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 5-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2,3,4-triol (C6H14O6)

The compound 5-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2,3,4-triol exhibits intriguing solubility characteristics that are noteworthy for its potential applications. This compound contains multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups which greatly influence its solubility behavior. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • High Solubility in Water: Due to the presence of the multiple hydroxyl groups, 5-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2,3,4-triol is expected to be highly soluble in water. The ability of these hydroxyl groups to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules enhances this solubility.
  • Influence of Chemical Structure: The tetrahydrofuran ring system contributes to the compound's solvation properties, allowing it to interact favorably with polar solvents.
  • Potential for Solvent Variability: While water is a primary solvent, the compound may also show reasonable solubility in other polar solvents, although detailed empirical data would be required to confirm this.
  • Application Insights: The solubility characteristics suggest that it could serve well in pharmacological formulations where water solubility is often a critical factor.

In summary, the solubility of 5-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2,3,4-triol is significantly enhanced by its functional groups, making it a versatile compound worth exploring in various chemical and industrial applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 5-(Hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2,3,4-triol

5-(Hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2,3,4-triol, a compound belonging to the class of sugar alcohols, presents a fascinating profile in the realm of organic chemistry. Here are some intriguing insights:

  • Structural Versatility: This compound contains a tetrahydrofuran ring, which provides a unique cyclic structure that can participate in a variety of chemical reactions. The hydroxymethyl groups enhance its reactivity, making it an interesting subject in synthetic organic chemistry.
  • Biological Relevance: Compounds with similar structures often play significant roles in biological systems. Sugar alcohols are commonly utilized by living organisms as sources of energy and can influence metabolic processes.
  • Potential Applications: 5-(Hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2,3,4-triol may find its applications in pharmaceuticals, where its structural properties could be harnessed to develop novel medications or therapeutic agents. The study of such molecules is pivotal in drug design and development.
  • Hydrophilicity: The presence of multiple hydroxyl groups contributes to its hydrophilic nature, enhancing its solubility in water. This characteristic is critical in its function as a potential biomolecule.
  • Research Opportunities: As a relatively less-studied compound, it presents opportunities for further exploration in the fields of medicinal chemistry and materials science. Investigating its reactivity and interactions could unveil new pathways for synthesis and application.

In conclusion, 5-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2,3,4-triol is a compound that merges structural complexity with potential utility. Its study not only enriches the understanding of organic compounds but also highlights the connection between chemistry and biology.

Synonyms
pentofuranose
D-Ribofuranose (9CI)
D-(-)-Ribose
D-Arabinofuranose (9CI)
alpha-D-Lyxofuranose(9CI)
alpha-D-Ribofuranose(9CI)
beta-D-Ribofuranose (9CI)
beta-D-Xylofuranose (9CI)
alpha-D-Arabinofuranose (9CI)
D-Ribose-2-13C
5-(Hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-2,3,4-triol
292853-79-3
613-83-2
pentose-ring
Oprea1_675333
SCHEMBL98728
DTXSID50865141
CHEBI:111514
HMS3369F21
STK366765
AKOS005443392
DS-14353
SY004436
DB-055457