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Tetraethylammonium

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Identification
Molecular formula
C8H20N
CAS number
66-40-0
IUPAC name
tetraethylammonium
State
State

At room temperature, tetraethylammonium compounds are generally found in crystalline solid form when in salt form such as tetraethylammonium bromide. However, the pure ion form is not stable at room temperature without a stabilizing anion.

Melting point (Celsius)
-35.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
238.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
190.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
463.15
General information
Molecular weight
130.25g/mol
Molar mass
130.2460g/mol
Density
0.8270g/cm3
Appearence

Tetraethylammonium is typically found in the form of its salts, such as tetraethylammonium chloride or tetraethylammonium hydroxide, which usually appear as white crystalline solids. The pure tetraethylammonium ion, in a hypothetical isolated form, would be colorless and is often not isolated as a free ion but rather associated with various anions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Tetraethylammonium (C8H20N)

Tetraethylammonium, a quaternary ammonium compound, exhibits unique solubility characteristics that make it particularly interesting. Its solubility can be attributed to the following factors:

  • Hydrophilicity: The presence of the positively charged nitrogen atom enhances its solubility in water, making it more amenable to interaction with polar solvents.
  • Hydrophobic Alkyl Groups: The four ethyl groups introduce hydrophobic characteristics, which may affect its solubility in various organic solvents.
  • Temperature Influence: Tetraethylammonium's solubility tends to increase with temperature, a common trait seen in many ionic compounds.

Although tetraethylammonium is soluble in water, its solubility in organic solvents varies widely. For example:

  • Readily soluble: In polar solvents such as methanol and ethanol.
  • Partially soluble: In nonpolar solvents, where the hydrophobic ethyl groups play a significant role in solubility behavior.

The intricate balance between its hydrophilic and hydrophobic portions is essential for its solubility profile. It's important to note that the specific conditions such as solvent type and temperature can significantly impact the solubility of tetraethylammonium.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Tetraethylammonium

Tetraethylammonium is a fascinating quaternary ammonium compound known for its unique properties and applications in various fields of chemistry. Here are some key points that highlight its significance:

  • Structure and Composition: Tetraethylammonium consists of a central nitrogen atom surrounded by four ethyl groups. This structure contributes to its cationic nature, making it a highly effective ion in various reactions.
  • Role in Ion Exchange: Due to its quaternary ammonium structure, tetraethylammonium is often utilized in ion-exchange processes. It can facilitate the movement of ions in solutions, which is critical in fields like water purification and chemical synthesis.
  • Biological Applications: Tetraethylammonium is of interest in pharmacology and biochemistry. It has been studied for its effects on ion channels and as a potential pharmacological agent to modulate nerve signaling.
  • Solvent Properties: This compound is known for its compatibility with a wide range of solvents. Scientists often use it in chemical reactions where a non-aqueous solvent is required, thereby expanding the scope of organic synthesis.
  • Electrochemical Behavior: Due to its ionic nature, tetraethylammonium ions play a significant role in electrochemical studies. They are commonly used in electrochemical cells and sensors, enhancing the understanding of ionic transport mechanisms.

In conclusion, tetraethylammonium stands out not only due to its chemical structure but also thanks to its versatility in numerous scientific applications. As noted by chemists, "Understanding the properties and behaviors of tetraethylammonium opens pathways to innovations in both industrial and biological sectors."

Synonyms
Tetraethylammonium
tetraethylazanium
Tetramon
Tetrylammonium
N,N,N-Triethylethanaminium
TETRAETHYLAMMONIUM ION
66-40-0
Tetraetilammonio
Tetraetilammonio [Italian]
AMMONIUM, TETRAETHYL-
Ethanaminium, N,N,N-triethyl-
5AV7G7EIEE
Tetraethylammonium cation
BRN 1738225
UNII-5AV7G7EIEE
NSC-156315
CHEBI:44296
NSC-102778
4-04-00-00331 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
CHEMBL9324
NEt4(+)
DTXSID2045024
Bromide, Tetraethylammonium
[NEt4](+)
TETRAETHYLAMMONIUM ION(1+)
tetraethylamine
(NEt4)(+)
Ion, Tetraethylammonium
[14C]TEA
[14C]-TEA
tetraethyl ammonium
Lopac-T-2265
SCHEMBL16267
GTPL2343
GTPL4575
DTXCID0025024
CBXCPBUEXACCNR-UHFFFAOYSA-N
DEA97778
DEA97779
Ethanaminium,N,N-triethyl-, acetate
BDBM50149890
NSC152122
NSC156315
STL281844
AKOS002264960
Ethanaminium, N,N,N-triethyl-(9CI)
CCG-205259
DB08837
NCGC00016008-01
NCGC00016008-02
NCGC00016008-03
NCGC00016008-06
NCGC00162361-01
NS00068416
C07512
Q410728
Ammonium, dodeca-.mu.-chlorohexachlorohexatantalate(2-)(2:1), octahedro-
Ethanaminium,N,N-triethyl-, dodeca-.mu.-chlorohexachlorohexatantalate(2-) octahedro (2:1)