HCOOCH CH2 H2O is an important formic acid derivative widely studied in organic chemistry. It is commonly used in laboratory experiments, industrial applications, and pharmaceutical synthesis. Its structure contains both a formate group (-HCOO-) and a hydroxymethyl group (-CH2OH), which makes it reactive and versatile for multiple chemical reactions.
For students, understanding this compound is crucial because it helps explain core concepts in esterification, nucleophilic addition, and hydroxymethylation reactions.
In this guide, we will cover the chemical structure, preparation methods, reactions, properties, practical applications, and solved examples of HCOOCH CH2 H2O in a step-by-step, easy-to-understand format.
What is HCOOCH CH2 H2O?
HCOOCH CH2 H2O is an organic compound derived from formic acid. Its IUPAC name is Methylol Formate or Hydroxymethyl Formate, and it has the molecular formula C3H6O3 with a molecular weight of approximately 90 g/mol. Physically, it is a colorless liquid, soluble in water and ethanol, with a mild ester-like odor.
Compared to simpler esters such as methyl formate, HCOOCH CH2 H2O contains a hydroxyl group, which increases its polarity and solubility in water, making it more versatile in aqueous reactions.
This combination of functional groups allows the compound to participate in a wide range of organic reactions, making it particularly useful for chemistry students and researchers.
Molecular Structure & Bonding
The molecular structure of HCOOCH CH2 H2O features a formate group (-HCOO-) linked to a hydroxymethyl group (-CH2OH). The ester linkage (-COO-) is responsible for its reactivity, while the hydroxyl group (-OH) allows hydrogen bonding and interaction with polar solvents.
The molecule is polar, and its covalent bonds ensure chemical stability while allowing participation in nucleophilic addition reactions.
Think of it like a Lego block: one side is reactive (-COO-) and the other side is sticky (-OH). This “dual functionality” enables it to connect with other molecules in chemical reactions, which is why it is frequently used in organic synthesis and laboratory experiments.
Preparation / Formation Reaction
HCOOCH CH2 H2O can be synthesized through the reaction of formaldehyde (CH2O) with formic acid (HCOOH) in an acidic medium, typically using sulfuric acid (H2SO4) as a catalyst. The reaction is carried out at mild temperatures (25–40°C) to avoid decomposition or unwanted by-products.
The chemical equation for this reaction is: HCOOH + CH2O→H+HCOOCH2OH\text{HCOOH + CH2O} \xrightarrow{H^+} \text{HCOOCH2OH}HCOOH + CH2OH+HCOOCH2OH
During preparation, it is important to use fresh formaldehyde to maximize yield and avoid impurities. Overheating the reaction mixture can lead to side reactions and reduce the efficiency of production. This method is widely used in laboratories to produce HCOOCH CH2 H2O for experiments and research.
Properties of HCOOCH CH2 H2O
The compound has several physical and chemical properties that are important for practical use. A summarized table is given below:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 90 g/mol |
| Boiling Point | 100–105°C |
| Melting Point | -10°C |
| Density | 1.09 g/mL |
| Solubility | Water, ethanol |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
| Odor | Mild, ester-like |
Chemically, HCOOCH CH2 H2O is reactive with bases, leading to hydrolysis and formation of sodium formate and alcohol. It can also participate in esterification and condensation reactions, which makes it a versatile tool in organic synthesis.
Real-Life Uses
HCOOCH CH2 H2O is widely applied across pharmaceutical, industrial, and academic fields. In pharmaceuticals, it is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of antibiotics and antiviral drugs. In industrial chemistry, it serves as a reagent for organic synthesis, polymer production, and solvent applications. For laboratory experiments, it demonstrates esterification reactions, hydroxymethylation, and reaction kinetics, making it a useful teaching tool.
Some additional practical applications include:
- Production of biodegradable plastics
- Use in hydroxymethylation reactions
- Academic research projects and lab exercises
Visual diagrams of lab setups or molecular interactions can further aid student understanding.
Solved Examples for Students
Example 1: Moles Calculation
Calculate the moles in 18 g of HCOOCH CH2 H2O. Moles=MassMolecular Weight=1890=0.2 moles\text{Moles} = \frac{\text{Mass}}{\text{Molecular Weight}} = \frac{18}{90} = 0.2 \text{ moles}Moles=Molecular WeightMass=9018=0.2 moles
Example 2: Hydrolysis Reaction
React HCOOCH CH2 H2O with NaOH: \text{HCOOCH2OH + NaOH → HCOONa + CH2OH^- + H2O}
Step-by-step: The ester is hydrolyzed, producing sodium formate and alcohol, which can be measured in lab experiments.
Example 3: Percentage Yield
If 5 g of HCOOCH CH2 H2O reacts and produces 3.5 g of sodium formate, the percentage yield is: Percentage Yield=3.55×100=70%\text{Percentage Yield} = \frac{3.5}{5} \times 100 = 70\%Percentage Yield=53.5×100=70%
FAQs
Q1: What is HCOOCH CH2 H2O used for?
It is used in pharmaceuticals, industrial organic synthesis, and academic experiments.
Q2: How is HCOOCH CH2 H2O prepared?
Through esterification of formaldehyde and formic acid under acidic conditions.
Q3: What is the molecular structure?
It contains a formate group (-HCOO-) and a hydroxymethyl group (-CH2OH).
Q4: Is it safe to handle?
Yes, with proper lab safety precautions such as gloves, goggles, and ventilation.
Q5: Can it be used in organic reactions?
Yes, it is versatile for esterification, nucleophilic reactions, and hydroxymethylation.
Conclusion
HCOOCH CH2 H2O is a versatile formic acid derivative essential for students, researchers, and chemists. By understanding its structure, preparation, reactions, properties, and practical applications, students can confidently apply this compound in labs, solve reaction problems, and explore organic synthesis.
Call to Action:
- Try the solved examples in your experiments
- Download diagrams for molecular structures and reactions
- Share this guide with peers studying organic chemistry
