Abstract
The packing propensity of ethanol in aqueous solution is very unusual, yet ethanol finds extensive use both in the food and the pharmaceutical industry. An analysis of the solution properties of increasing concentrations of ethanol in water at 20° and 37°C reveals valuable information about its packing characteristics. Apparent molar and specific volumes provide information about the interaction of ethanol with surrounding water structure. Isentropic apparent molar and specific compressibilities indicate the extent to which the hydration layer around the ethanol molecules can be compressed. Compressibility hydration numbers show the number of water molecules that are displaced by the introduction of the ethanol to water. The enhanced packing efficiency of ethanol in water at low concentrations, is affected by the formation of cage-like structures around the hydrophobic end of the molecule. At high concentrations, however, linear chains or rings of ethanol molecules are formed which change its mode of packing within the three-dimensional structure of water. These effects may be used to help explain the mechanism of action of ethanol in food, pharmaceutical and other applications.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
