(Z)-4-Decenoic acid is a chemical compound commonly found in the volatile emissions of honeybees and known for its role in communication among various social insects. Additionally, this compound has been studied for its potential applications in creating artificial pheromones to manipulate insect behavior and enhance crop pollination. Consequently, (Z)-4-Decenoic acid holds significance in the fields of agriculture, pest management, and ecological research, contributing to advancements in understanding and controlling insect populations in everyday life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
(Z)-4-Decenoic acid, also known as (Z)-4-decenoate, is a fatty acid commonly found in various vegetable oils. This compound has several commercial and industrial applications, primarily in the production of flavors and fragrances. (Z)-4-Decenoic acid is used as an odorant in cosmetic products and as a flavoring agent in food products.
In terms of drug and medication applications, (Z)-4-Decenoic acid has shown promise as a potential treatment for certain bacterial infections. Studies have demonstrated its antibacterial properties against various strains of bacteria, making it a possible candidate for use in pharmaceutical products. Research is ongoing to explore the full potential of (Z)-4-Decenoic acid in medical applications.
Overall, the commercial and industrial uses of (Z)-4-Decenoic acid are diverse and continue to expand as research uncovers new potential applications for this compound. Its unique properties make it a valuable ingredient in various industries, from food and fragrance to pharmaceuticals. Further exploration of (Z)-4-Decenoic acid’s capabilities may lead to even more innovative uses in the future.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
(Z)-4-Decenoic acid is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a strong, pungent odor. It is often described as having a fatty or rancid smell, similar to other fatty acids found in nature.
The molar mass of (Z)-4-Decenoic acid is approximately 168.24 g/mol, and its density is around 0.9 g/cm³. In comparison to common food items like sugar (approximately 342 g/mol) and water (approximately 18 g/mol), (Z)-4-Decenoic acid has a lower molar mass and density.
The melting point of (Z)-4-Decenoic acid is around -10°C, while its boiling point is approximately 268°C. These values differ significantly from common food items like salt (melting point around 801°C) and water (boiling point at 100°C), showcasing the unique characteristics of (Z)-4-Decenoic acid.
(Z)-4-Decenoic acid has limited solubility in water and is relatively viscous. Compared to common food items like sugar and salt, which are highly soluble in water, and have different viscosities, (Z)-4-Decenoic acid presents distinct solubility and viscosity properties.
🏭 Production & Procurement
(Z)-4-Decenoic acid is primarily produced through the hydrolysis of natural oils, such as castor oil or soybean oil, using alkaline hydrolysis. This process involves the saponification of the triglyceride oils with a strong base, followed by acidification to yield (Z)-4-Decenoic acid. The acid can then be extracted and purified for various industrial applications.
The procurement of (Z)-4-Decenoic acid typically involves the purchase of commercially available quantities from chemical suppliers. The acid is commonly transported in well-sealed containers to prevent contamination and preserve its purity during transit. It is important to store (Z)-4-Decenoic acid in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its stability and quality.
For larger scale production and procurement of (Z)-4-Decenoic acid, specialized equipment and facilities may be required to handle the process efficiently and ensure high purity of the final product. It is essential to follow proper safety protocols, such as wearing protective gear and working in well-ventilated areas, when handling (Z)-4-Decenoic acid to minimize risks of exposure and ensure worker safety. Overall, the production and procurement of (Z)-4-Decenoic acid involve careful planning, adherence to regulations, and attention to quality control measures.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for (Z)-4-Decenoic acid should be taken seriously due to its potential hazards. This compound is considered harmful if swallowed, and can cause skin irritation and serious eye damage upon contact. It is important to handle (Z)-4-Decenoic acid with care, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats to prevent exposure.
In terms of hazard statements, (Z)-4-Decenoic acid is classified as harmful if swallowed, causing irritation of the respiratory system. It can also lead to skin irritation and serious eye damage upon contact. In addition, this compound may cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure. It is advisable to handle (Z)-4-Decenoic acid with caution and follow safety protocols to minimize potential risks.
Precautionary statements for (Z)-4-Decenoic acid include avoiding ingestion, inhalation, and skin or eye contact. It is recommended to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats, when handling this compound. In case of exposure, immediate medical attention is advised, especially in cases of inhalation or serious eye damage. Proper storage and disposal procedures should also be followed to prevent environmental contamination.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for (Z)-4-Decenoic acid is exploring its potential as a bioactive compound with antibacterial properties. Studies could investigate its effectiveness against various strains of bacteria and its mechanism of action.
Another area of interest could be examining the potential therapeutic applications of (Z)-4-Decenoic acid in the treatment of inflammatory conditions. Research could focus on its anti-inflammatory properties and its impact on immune response in various disease models.
Furthermore, studies could be conducted to determine the potential impact of (Z)-4-Decenoic acid on cancer cells. Research may investigate its ability to inhibit tumor growth, induce apoptosis, or modulate cancer cell signaling pathways.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to (Z)-4-Decenoic acid is (E)-4-Decenoic acid. This compound is an unsaturated fatty acid with a similar molecular structure to (Z)-4-Decenoic acid, but the geometry of the double bond is cis rather than trans. The cis configuration of the double bond in (E)-4-Decenoic acid gives it slightly different chemical properties compared to (Z)-4-Decenoic acid.
Another similar compound to (Z)-4-Decenoic acid is 4-Decenoic acid. This compound has a similar carbon chain length and double bond position as (Z)-4-Decenoic acid, but it lacks the geometric specificity of the Z configuration. Without a defined Z or E configuration, 4-Decenoic acid may exhibit slightly different chemical reactivity than (Z)-4-Decenoic acid in certain reactions. Despite this difference, 4-Decenoic acid shares many chemical properties with (Z)-4-Decenoic acid due to the similarities in their molecular structures.
