Isopentyl alcohol, also known as isopentanol or 3-methyl-1-butanol, is a clear, colorless liquid with a fruity odor.
| IUPAC Name | 3-Methylbutyl alcohol |
| Molecular Formula | C5H12O |
| CAS id | 123-51-3 |
| Synonyms | Isopentanol, 3-methylbutanol, isopentyl alcohol, 2-methylpropyl alcohol, sec-amyl alcohol, isoamyl alcohol, 2-methylbutyl alcohol |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C5H12O/c1-4(2)3-5(6)7/h4-5H,3H2,1-2H3 |
Isopentyl Alcohol Properties
Isopentyl alcohol molar mass
The molar mass of isopentyl alcohol, also known as isopentanol or 3-methylbutanol, is 88.15 g/mol. This value is important in determining the amount of Isopentanol present in a given sample and in calculating chemical reactions involving the compound.
Isopentyl alcohol boiling point
The boiling point of isopentyl alcohol is 137.5°C (280°F). This value is used to identify and separate Isopentanol from other compounds in a mixture. It also determines the conditions under which Isoamyl alcohol can be safely handled and stored.
Isopentyl alcohol density g/ml
The density of isopentyl alcohol is 0.80 g/ml. This value is used to calculate the volume of Isopentanol in a given amount of liquid, and is also used in determining the concentration of isoamyl alcohol in a solution.
Isopentyl alcohol molecular weight
The molecular weight of isopentyl alcohol is 88.15 g/mol. This value is used in calculating the amount of Isopentanol present in a sample, and in determining the chemical reactions that isopentyl alcohol can participate in. It is also used in determining the properties of isoamyl alcohol, such as its boiling point and density.
| Appearance | Clear liquid |
| Specific Gravity | 0.815 – 0.820 |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Fruity |
| Molar Mass | 88.15 g/mol |
| Density | 0.817 g/cm3 at 20°C |
| Melting Point | -114.5 °C |
| Boiling Point | 137-138 °C |
| Flash Point | 38 °C |
| Water Solubility | Miscible |
| Solubility | Miscible in ethanol, ether, and benzene |
| Vapour Pressure | 0.07 mmHg at 20 °C |
| Vapour Density | 3.5 (air = 1) |
| PKa | 15.76 |
| PH | 7 (neutral) |
Isopentyl alcohol Safety and Hazards
Isopentanol is considered to be a low toxicity substance, with a low potential for skin and eye irritation. However, it is flammable and should be handled and stored with caution. Inhaling high concentrations of Isoamyl alcohol may cause respiratory irritation. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations may also cause central nervous system depression. It is important to follow proper safety procedures and use protective equipment when handling Isoamyl alcohol.
| Hazard Symbols | Flammable liquid (F), Irritant (Xi) |
| Safety Description | Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flame. Keep container tightly closed. Use with adequate ventilation. Wear protective gloves and eye protection. |
| UN IDs | UN1105, Isopentanol, 3, PG II |
| HS Code | 29335995 |
| Hazard Class | 3 (Flammable liquid) |
| Packing Group | II (medium danger) |
| Toxicity | Isopentanol is considered to be toxic when ingested or inhaled in large quantities. It can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Long-term exposure can lead to central nervous system depression, headaches, and dizziness. It is not considered to be a carcinogen or mutagen. |
Isopentyl Alcohol’s Preparation Methods
Isoamyl alcohol can be prepared through several methods. One commonly used method is the Fischer esterification reaction, which involves reacting carboxylic acids with alcohols in the presence of an acid catalyst. In this case, Isopentanol can be prepared by reacting isopentanoic acid with Isoamyl alcohol in the presence of sulfuric acid as a catalyst. Another method of preparation is through the reduction of isopentyl acetate using a reducing agent such as lithium aluminum hydride or sodium borohydride. Both methods yield Isoamyl alcohol as a clear, colorless liquid with a fruity odor.
Isopentyl Alcohol’s Uses
Isopentyl alcohol, also known as Isoamyl alcohol or 3-methyl-1-butanol, is a colorless liquid with a fruity odor. It is used in the production of fragrances and flavorings, as well as in the manufacture of solvents, cleaning agents, and lubricants. It is also used as an intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals, such as esters and amines. In addition, Isoamyl alcohol is used in the food industry as a flavoring agent and in the pharmaceutical industry as a solvent for drug delivery systems. It is also used in the cosmetic industry as a fragrance and as a solvent for cosmetics and personal care products. Overall, Isoamyl alcohol is a versatile chemical with many uses in various industries.