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Palmitoleic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C16H30O2
CAS number
373-49-9
IUPAC name
hexadec-9-enoic acid
State
State

Palmitoleic acid is typically found in a liquid state at room temperature due to its unsaturation, which prevents tight packing of its molecules.

Melting point (Celsius)
-0.10
Melting point (Kelvin)
273.05
Boiling point (Celsius)
216.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
489.15
General information
Molecular weight
254.41g/mol
Molar mass
254.4080g/mol
Density
0.8922g/cm3
Appearence

Palmitoleic acid is a colorless and clear liquid at room temperature. It can also be a pale yellow when impure. As a fatty acid, it can present a characteristic oily texture.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Hexadec-9-enoic Acid (C16H30O2)

Hexadec-9-enoic acid, commonly known as palmitoleic acid, has intriguing solubility characteristics that stem from its structure. Being a fatty acid, its solubility is greatly influenced by its long hydrocarbon chain and the presence of a carboxylic acid functional group at one end.

Solubility Characteristics:

  • In Water: Hexadec-9-enoic acid exhibits limited solubility in water due to its hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain, which outweighs the hydrophilic nature of the carboxylic group. Generally, fatty acids with long carbon chains are poorly soluble in water.

  • In Organic Solvents: This compound shows a higher degree of solubility in non-polar organic solvents such as hexane, ethanol, and chloroform. This is attributed to the compatibility of the non-polar regions of the molecule with the solvent.

  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of hexadec-9-enoic acid may also increase with temperature, allowing greater interaction of the molecule with organic solvents.

In summary, the solubility of hexadec-9-enoic acid can be succinctly described as:

  • Low solubility in water
  • High solubility in organic solvents

These solubility properties make hexadec-9-enoic acid an interesting compound for various chemical applications and studies.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Hexadec-9-enoic Acid

Hexadec-9-enoic acid, commonly known as palmitoleic acid, is a fascinating unsaturated fatty acid with a variety of biological and industrial applications. Here are some engaging insights:

  • Natural Occurrence: This acid is naturally found in several animal and plant fats, including sea buckthorn oil, macadamia nuts, and even breast milk!
  • Health Benefits: It is considered beneficial for cardiovascular health, as it can help lower bad cholesterol levels and improve overall lipid profiles in the body.
  • Role in Metabolism: Palmitoleic acid plays a vital role in metabolism and is involved in the regulation of fatty acid oxidation and synthesis.
  • Cosmetic Use: Due to its moisturizing properties, this compound is often included in skin care products, helping to maintain skin elasticity and hydration.
  • Industrial Importance: It finds applications in the production of biodiesel and as a precursor in the synthesis of various surfactants and emulsifiers.

Researchers and nutritionists continue to study hexadec-9-enoic acid due to its potential health benefits and its ability to influence metabolic processes in humans. As Victor Emmanuel, a prominent nutrition scientist, once said, "Fats are not just a source of energy but also play crucial roles in physiological functions."

Such properties make hexadec-9-enoic acid a compound of interest for both scientific research and practical applications.

Synonyms
9-HEXADECENOIC ACID
9-Hexadecenoic acid, (9Z)-
hexadeca-9-enoic acid
9-trans-Hexadecenoic acid;trans-Palmitoleic acid
DTXSID5041564
SECPZKHBENQXJG-UHFFFAOYSA-N
AKOS028109448
SY075335
DB-220102
NS00112847