| Formula / Notation | C6H12O2 |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 142-62-1 |
| Molecular Weight | 116.16 |
| Melting Point | 27 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 396 to 397 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 0.927 (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float |
| Solubility | 5 to 10 mg/mL at 72 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Caproic acid appears as a white crystalline solid or colorless to light yellow solution with an unpleasant odor. Insoluble to slightly soluble in water and less dense than water. Contact may severe... |
| Also Known As | Caproic acid; 142-62-1; n-Hexanoic acid; n-Caproic acid; Capronic acid; 1-Hexanoic acid; Hexoic acid; Butylacetic acid; Pentylformic acid; n-Hexylic acid |
| Category | Acids |
What is Hexanoic acid?
Hexanoic acid is a C6, straight-chain saturated fatty acid. It has a role as a plant metabolite and a human metabolite. It is a straight-chain saturated fatty acid and a medium-chain fatty acid. It is a conjugate acid of a hexanoate.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: hexanoic acid
Other Names / Synonyms: Caproic acid; 142-62-1; n-Hexanoic acid; n-Caproic acid; Capronic acid; 1-Hexanoic acid; Hexoic acid; Butylacetic acid; Pentylformic acid; n-Hexylic acid
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 27 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 396 to 397 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 0.927 (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float |
| Molecular Weight | 116.16 |
| Solubility | 5 to 10 mg/mL at 72 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Caproic acid appears as a white crystalline solid or colorless to light yellow solution with an unpleasant odor. Insoluble to slightly soluble in water and less dense than water. Contact may severe... |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Hexanoic acid is a C6, straight-chain saturated fatty acid. It has a role as a plant metabolite and a human metabolite. It is a straight-chain saturated fatty acid and a medium-chain fatty acid. It is a conjugate acid of a hexanoate.
Used in industrial chemical synthesis, fertilizer production, battery electrolytes, metal processing, and laboratory acid-base reactions.
Corrosive. Causes severe burns to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Wear appropriate PPE including gloves, goggles, and lab coat. Consult SDS before use.
The formula or notation for Hexanoic acid is: C6H12O2