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Sodium Phenoxide

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H5NaO
CAS number
139-02-6
IUPAC name
sodium;phenoxide
State
State

At room temperature, sodium phenoxide is typically a solid. It is stable and can be stored under normal laboratory conditions but should be kept away from moisture as it is hygroscopic.

Melting point (Celsius)
292.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
565.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
245.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
518.15
General information
Molecular weight
116.11g/mol
Molar mass
116.1070g/mol
Density
1.2380g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium phenoxide appears as a white to off-white crystalline solid. It may also be found as a powder, which is highly soluble in water, producing clear solutions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Phenoxide

Sodium phenoxide, with its chemical formula NaC6H5O, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics due to its ionic and aromatic components.

Solubility Characteristics

  • Solubility in Water: Sodium phenoxide is highly soluble in water. This solubility is primarily attributed to the ionic bond between the sodium ion (Na+) and the phenoxide ion (C6H5O-), allowing it to dissociate easily in aqueous solutions.
  • Solvent Compatibility: It is also soluble in various polar organic solvents. However, it shows limited solubility in nonpolar solvents due to its polar nature.
  • Temperature Influence: The solubility of sodium phenoxide can be affected by temperature—generally, higher temperatures increase solubility.

The high solubility of sodium phenoxide in water makes it valuable in various chemical applications and reactions:

  • As a *reactant* in organic synthesis.
  • In the *extraction* of organic compounds.
  • *Buffer solutions* in pH control.

Overall, the solubility of sodium phenoxide is a key factor that enhances its utility in the field of chemistry.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Sodium Phenoxide

Sodium phenoxide is an intriguing compound that serves as a prime example of an alkali metal phenoxide. It is produced by the reaction of sodium with phenol, forming a robust salt that has applications across various fields of chemistry. Here are some fascinating aspects of sodium phenoxide:

  • Versatile Reactivity: Sodium phenoxide acts as a strong nucleophile. This property enables it to participate in several chemical reactions, including nucleophilic substitutions and the formation of more complex organic molecules.
  • Applications in Organic Synthesis: It plays a crucial role in the synthesis of various organic compounds. For example, sodium phenoxide is used in the manufacture of phenolic resins, which are essential in plastics and adhesives.
  • Acid-Base Behavior: As a salt derived from a strong base (sodium hydroxide) and a weak acid (phenol), sodium phenoxide can influence the pH of solutions. Its basicity can be harnessed in various chemical processes.
  • Phenol Derivatives: Sodium phenoxide is a precursor to many phenol derivatives, making it a building block in the development of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and dyes.

Quote to Remember

As the famous chemist Linus Pauling once said, "In chemistry, there are no shortcuts." The study of compounds like sodium phenoxide exemplifies this, as each reaction involves a delicate balance of mechanisms and pathways.

In conclusion, sodium phenoxide's unique properties and versatility make it a valuable compound in the field of chemistry, paving the way for innovative solutions and materials in science and industry.