(2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, also known as citric acid, is a compound commonly found in a variety of everyday products. It is widely used in the food and beverage industry as a flavor enhancer and preservative. Citric acid is found in citrus fruits such as lemons and limes, giving them their tart taste. It is also used in cleaning products, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Its acidic properties make it a versatile ingredient in many household and commercial products, contributing to its relevance in daily life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
(2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, also known as citric acid, is a widely used compound in various commercial and industrial applications. Its acidic properties make it a common ingredient in food and beverage production, where it is used as a flavor enhancer and preservative. Citric acid is also used in cosmetic products, such as skin creams and shampoos, for its ability to adjust pH levels and improve product stability.
In addition to its commercial and industrial applications, citric acid has found its way into the pharmaceutical industry for its medicinal properties. As a chelating agent, it is used in some medications to bind to metals in the body and facilitate their removal. Citric acid is also used in certain drug formulations to improve the solubility and bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
Overall, (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, or citric acid, plays a crucial role in various commercial, industrial, and pharmaceutical applications. Its versatility and properties make it a valuable compound in multiple industries, from food and beverage to pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
(2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid appears as a white crystalline solid with no distinct odor. The compound is highly pure and does not have any noticeable fragrance.
The molar mass of (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is approximately 348.4 g/mol, and its density is around 1.3 g/cm^3. When compared to common food items like sugar (180.16 g/mol, 1.59 g/cm^3) and salt (58.44 g/mol, 2.16 g/cm^3), the compound has a higher molar mass and lower density.
The melting point of (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is approximately 180-185°C, and its boiling point is around 350-360°C. In comparison to common food items like butter (melting point: 30-35°C, boiling point: 162-184°C) and honey (melting point: 33-40°C, boiling point: 150-180°C), the compound has significantly higher melting and boiling points.
(2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is sparingly soluble in water and exhibits high viscosity due to its long carbon chain and multiple carboxylic acid functional groups. This compound’s solubility in water and viscosity are much lower compared to common food items like sugar (high solubility, low viscosity) and salt (high solubility, low viscosity).
🏭 Production & Procurement
(2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is produced through a multi-step chemical synthesis process in a controlled laboratory setting. The starting materials for the synthesis are commercially available compounds that undergo various reactions and purification steps to yield the final product. The stereochemistry of the molecule is crucial in the synthesis process to ensure the correct configuration of the hydroxy and carboxylic acid functional groups.
The procurement of (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid involves sourcing the necessary starting materials from chemical suppliers. Once the starting materials are obtained, they are used in the synthesis process to produce the desired compound. The final product can then be transported in a dry, sealed container to prevent any degradation or contamination during shipping. It is important to handle and store the compound according to recommended guidelines to maintain its stability and purity.
In addition to chemical synthesis, (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid can also be isolated from natural sources such as certain marine organisms or microbial fermentation. However, this method of procurement is less common due to the low yield and complexity of extraction and purification processes involved. The compound can then be transported in a similar manner as the synthetic product, ensuring proper storage conditions to maintain its integrity until it reaches its final destination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid include the need for proper personal protective equipment when handling the substance, such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat to prevent skin contact or inhalation. This compound should be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight to prevent decomposition or potential hazards. Additionally, it is important to follow proper disposal methods for this chemical to minimize environmental impact and ensure safety.
The hazard statements for (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid include the potential for skin and eye irritation upon contact with the substance. Furthermore, inhalation or ingestion of this compound may cause respiratory or gastrointestinal irritation, respectively. It is important to handle this chemical with care and adhere to safety protocols to minimize the risk of harm.
Precautionary statements for (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid include the recommendation to wear appropriate protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection when working with the substance. It is advised to work in a well-ventilated area or use a fume hood to prevent inhalation of vapors. In case of skin contact, wash thoroughly with soap and water, and seek medical attention if irritation persists. Additionally, this compound should be stored in a secure location away from incompatible materials to prevent accidents or chemical reactions.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is its role as a chiral building block in the synthesis of complex molecules. Researchers may explore different synthetic routes and reaction conditions to optimize the yield and selectivity of this compound.
Another avenue of study could focus on the biological activity of (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid. Investigating its interactions with biological receptors or enzymes could provide insights into potential pharmaceutical applications. Researchers may also explore its potential as a catalyst in asymmetric organic transformations.
Furthermore, the physicochemical properties of (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid could be explored for various industrial applications. Its solubility, stability, and reactivity in different solvents could be investigated to assess its potential utility as a raw material in the production of specialty chemicals or materials. Additional research could also focus on the environmental impact of its synthesis and potential applications.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is (2R,3R)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid. This compound would have the same molecular formula, but a different arrangement of the hydroxyl and carboxylic acid groups. The stereochemistry at the chiral centers would be reversed, resulting in a mirror image compound.
Another similar compound is (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytridecane-1,3,5-tricarboxylic acid. In this compound, the carboxylic acid groups are attached to different carbon atoms along the carbon chain, resulting in a different isomeric structure. The arrangement of the hydroxyl and carboxylic acid groups would remain the same, but the positioning of the carboxylic acid groups would be altered.
Lastly, a similar compound could be (2S,3S)-2-hydroxytetradecane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid. This compound would have an additional carbon atom in the alkyl chain compared to the original compound. The hydroxyl and carboxylic acid groups would be in the same positions, but due to the elongation of the alkyl chain, the overall molecular structure would differ.
