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Dimethoxymethane

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Identification
Molecular formula
C3H8O2
CAS number
109-87-5
IUPAC name
dimethoxymethane
State
State

Dimethoxymethane exists as a liquid at room temperature. Due to its high volatility, it can evaporate and become gaseous relatively quickly when exposed to the open air, especially at temperatures above its boiling point.

Melting point (Celsius)
-106.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
166.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
42.10
Boiling point (Kelvin)
315.25
General information
Molecular weight
76.09g/mol
Molar mass
76.0940g/mol
Density
0.8677g/cm3
Appearence

Dimethoxymethane is a clear, colorless liquid. It often has a faint, ether-like odor. Its liquid form is typically non-viscous and it is highly volatile, evaporating quickly when exposed to air.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Dimethoxymethane

Dimethoxymethane, also referred to as 1,1-Dimethoxyethane, has intriguing solubility characteristics that are worth noting. Here are some key aspects:

  • Polar Nature: Dimethoxymethane features polar functional groups, which generally enhance its ability to dissolve in polar solvents.
  • Miscibility: It is completely miscible with water, making it a viable solvent in aqueous solutions.
  • Solvent Versatility: Aside from water, dimethoxymethane is soluble in other organic solvents such as alcohols and ethers due to its ether-like structure.
  • Temperature Influence: Its solubility can be influenced by temperature changes, becoming more soluble in warmer conditions.

In summary, the solubility profile of dimethoxymethane showcases its utility in various chemical applications, particularly as a solvent in both polar and non-polar systems. Thus, it is a compound of interest for researchers working with solute-solvent interactions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Dimethoxymethane

Dimethoxymethane, also known by its systematic name, 1,1-Dimethoxyethane, is a fascinating compound with a versatile range of applications that make it significant in various fields of chemistry.

Key Characteristics:

  • Organic Solvent: Dimethoxymethane serves as an important organic solvent widely used in laboratories and industrial settings, making it valuable in chemical syntheses and formulations.
  • Electrophile in Reactions: In organic synthesis, it acts as an electrophile, participating in various reactions, which highlights its role in forming more complex molecules.
  • Environmental Impact: This compound is noteworthy for its relatively low environmental toxicity compared to other solvents, making it a more sustainable choice in chemical processes.

Applications of Dimethoxymethane:

The unique characteristics of dimethoxymethane lead to several exciting applications:

  • Used as an intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
  • Involved in the preparation of protective groups in organic synthesis.
  • Potential applications in fuel and energy sectors due to its combustion properties.

Did You Know?

Dimethoxymethane is sometimes referred to as a “methoxyether,” which highlights its structure with methoxy functional groups. This compound is a testament to the diversity of simple organic molecules, demonstrating how they can serve a variety of roles in chemistry.

As a student of chemistry, exploring compounds like dimethoxymethane not only broadens your understanding of organic reactions but also emphasizes the importance of selecting environmentally friendly options in chemical practices. Embracing such innovations can lead to a greener future in the field of chemistry.

Synonyms
Dimethoxymethane
109-87-5
METHYLAL
Formal
Methane, dimethoxy-
Formaldehyde dimethyl acetal
Dimethyl formal
Anesthenyl
2,4-Dioxapentane
Methylene dimethyl ether
Bis(methoxy)methane
Methoxymethyl methyl ether
bis(methyloxy)methane
Metylal
Formaldehyde methyl ketal
Formaldehyde dimethylacetal
Methylene glycol dimethylether
HSDB 1820
Dimethoxy-Methane
UNII-7H1M4G2NUE
EINECS 203-714-2
UN1234
CCRIS 9397
Methylenedioxydimethane
CHEBI:48341
AI3-16096
METHYLAL [HSDB]
METHYLAL [MI]
Dimethylacetal formaldehyde
METHYLAL [WHO-DD]
7H1M4G2NUE
(CH3O)2CH2
DTXSID1025564
EC 203-714-2
MFCD00008495
UN 1234
Dimethoxy methane
Metylal [Polish]
Dimethylformal
Dioxapentane
Methylene Glycol Dimethyl Ether
2,4Dioxapentane
methane, dimethoxy
Methylene dimethylether
METHYLAL [INCI]
Dimethoxymethane 99.5%
Methylal (ACGIH:OSHA)
CHEMBL15537
DTXCID905564
Dimethoxymethane (ACGIH:OSHA)
FORMALDEHYDE DIMETHYLACETOL
AKOS000120977
FD34669
Dimethoxymethane, ReagentPlus(R), 99%
Methylal [UN1234] [Flammable liquid]
D0637
NS00003248
Formaldehyde dimethyl acetal, analytical standard
Q411496
METHYLAL (DIMETHOXY-METHANE) (DIMETHOXYMETHANE)
F0001-0207
Formaldehyde dimethyl acetal, absolute, over molecular sieve (H2O <=0.01%), >=99.0% (GC)