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sodium phenylacetate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C8H7NaO2
CAS number
114-70-5
IUPAC name
sodium;2-phenylacetate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium phenylacetate is found as a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
288.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
561.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
284.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
557.15
General information
Molecular weight
158.13g/mol
Molar mass
158.1320g/mol
Density
1.4080g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium phenylacetate is a white crystalline powder. It is usually odorless, but may hold a faint, characteristic smell. The compound is hygroscopic in nature, meaning it tends to absorb moisture from the air.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 2-phenylacetate

Sodium 2-phenylacetate, known for its distinctive characteristics, displays interesting solubility properties that are essential for various applications. This compound is quite soluble in water due to the presence of the sodium ion, which enhances its ability to dissolve in polar solvents. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Solvent Compatibility: Sodium 2-phenylacetate is primarily soluble in polar solvents, particularly water, making it useful in aqueous solutions.
  • Temperature Effects: The solubility can increase with temperature, aligning with the general behavior of ionic compounds.
  • pH Sensitivity: The solubility may also be influenced by the pH of the solution, as the ionization state can affect how readily the compound dissolves.

As a rule of thumb, one can remember: "Ionic compounds tend to be soluble in polar solvents." This principle underlines why sodium 2-phenylacetate shows good solubility in water, facilitating its use in various chemical and biochemical processes. In summary, its solubility is a significant characteristic that enables its practical applications in the laboratory and industry.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 2-Phenylacetate

Sodium 2-phenylacetate is a fascinating compound with various applications in both the chemical and pharmaceutical fields. Here are some intriguing points about this compound:

  • Pharmaceutical Relevance: Sodium 2-phenylacetate is studied for its potential role in the treatment of certain disorders, particularly due to its effects on neurotransmitter synthesis and metabolism. It has been investigated for its neuroprotective properties.
  • Biochemical Applications: This compound can act as a substrate for the synthesis of phenylacetate derivatives, which are useful in the development of various biologically active molecules.
  • Origins: Sodium 2-phenylacetate is derived from phenylacetic acid, a naturally occurring compound that has been historically utilized in perfumery and flavoring, showcasing the compound's link to organic chemistry and its industrial applications.
  • Biodegradable Salts: As a salt, it holds potential in applications that require biodegradable substances, contributing to ecological sustainability efforts.
  • Research Potential: Its unique structure provides a rich avenue for scientific exploration, particularly in the synthesis of more complex chemical entities within medicinal chemistry.

In summary, sodium 2-phenylacetate is not just an ordinary compound but a compound with significant implications in therapeutic applications and synthetic chemistry. As researchers continue to uncover its properties, it may pave the way for new innovations in the scientific community.