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Vitamin B12

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Identification
Molecular formula
C63H88CoN14O14P
CAS number
68-19-9
IUPAC name
cobalt;[5-(5,6-dimethylbenzimidazol-1-yl)-4-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-3-yl] [1-methyl-2-[3-[2,13,18-tris(2-amino-2-oxo-ethyl)-7,12,17-tris(3-amino-3-oxo-propyl)-3,5,8,8,13,15,18,19-octamethyl-2,7,12,17-tetrahydrocorrin-3-yl]propanoylamino]ethyl] hydrogen phosphate;cyanide
State
State

At room temperature, vitamin B12 exists as a solid. In its crystalline form, it is stable and can be stored for long periods without significant degradation if kept away from light and moisture.

Melting point (Celsius)
300.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
573.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
1355.37g/mol
Molar mass
1 355.3700g/mol
Density
1.4000g/cm3
Appearence

Vitamin B12 appears as dark red crystals or crystalline powder. It is soluble in water, ensuring its bioavailability in biological systems. Its vibrant color is attributed to the presence of cobalt within its structure, which is a central component of the corrinoid ring system.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Cobalt Complex

The solubility of the cobalt complex, specifically the compound cobalt;[5-(5,6-dimethylbenzimidazol-1-yl)-4-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-3-yl] [1-methyl-2-[3-[2,13,18-tris(2-amino-2-oxo-ethyl)-7,12,17-tris(3-amino-3-oxo-propyl)-3,5,8,8,13,15,18,19-octamethyl-2,7,12,17-tetrahydrocorrin-3-yl]propanoylamino]ethyl] hydrogen phosphate;cyanide (C63H88CoN14O14P) is an intriguing subject due to its complex molecular structure.

Here are some key considerations regarding its solubility:

  • Polarity: The presence of multiple polar groups, such as hydroxyl and amino functionalities, suggests that this compound may exhibit favorable solubility in polar solvents like water.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The ability to engage in hydrogen bonding further enhances solubility, which could make it more soluble in aqueous environments.
  • Salt Formation: If it ionizes, the formation of salts could significantly impact solubility, especially in the presence of other ions in solution.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: Conversely, the non-polar segments of the molecule may limit its solubility in non-polar organic solvents.

As a result, the solubility of this cobalt complex can be quite variable, depending on the solvent system, temperature, and the presence of other solutes in solution. It is essential to conduct empirical solubility tests to obtain precise data, as theoretical predictions may not fully capture the complexities associated with such a multifaceted molecule.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Cobalt Compound

This intriguing compound, which incorporates cobalt, is a prime example of the fascinating interactivity between transition metals and organic molecules. Cobalt is widely known for its role in various biological systems, particularly as a component of vitamin B12, which is essential for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation.

Biological Significance

The presence of cobalt in this compound suggests potential applications in biological chemistry:

  • Enzymatic Activity: Cobalt serves as a cofactor in various enzymatic reactions, enhancing catalytic efficiency.
  • Medical Applications: Compounds involving cobalt are studied for their potential to treat anemia and other cobalt deficiency-related health issues.
  • Anticancer Properties: Some cobalt complexes are being investigated for their ability to inhibit cancer cell growth.

Chemical Properties

As a coordination compound, this structure displays unique properties derived from both its organic and inorganic components:

  • Coordination Chemistry: The arrangement of ligands around the cobalt center allows for diverse chemical behavior.
  • Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Regions: This compound features distinct regions that make it suitable for interactions in biological environments.
  • Structural Versatility: The complexity of its structure highlights the fascinating world of synthetic organic chemistry and coordination compounds.

Environmental Impact

When considering the environmental implications:

  • Toxicity: Cobalt compounds can exhibit toxicity at high concentrations, necessitating careful handling in laboratory and industrial settings.
  • Ecological Concerns: Understanding their behavior in the environment is crucial for assessing risks.

In summary, this cobalt-containing compound not only embodies the intricate relationship between transition metals and organic frameworks but also holds promise across a range of scientific fields, from catalysis to medicine. As a scientist or a chemistry student, exploring its potential applications can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in chemistry.