CAS number 491-07-6 uniquely identifies (±)-Isomenthone. This chemical compound is a cyclic ketone recognized for its distinct aroma and is widely utilized in various industries.
Understanding (±)-Isomenthone
(±)-Isomenthone is an organic compound belonging to the class of monoterpenes. The "(±)" prefix indicates that it is a racemic mixture, meaning it contains an equal amount of both enantiomers (mirror-image forms) of Isomenthone. It is an isomer of menthone, differing in the arrangement of its atoms.
Chemical Properties and Occurrence
- Chemical Formula: C10H18O
- Molar Mass: Approximately 154.25 g/mol
- (±)-Isomenthone possesses a characteristic minty, herbaceous, or camphoraceous aroma. It is often found naturally in the essential oils of various plant species, particularly from the Mentha genus, such as peppermint, spearmint, and pennyroyal. Its presence contributes to the aromatic profile of these plants.
Applications and Uses
Due to its unique scent, (±)-Isomenthone finds significant applications in industries where fragrance and flavor are key.
- Perfumery: It is used as a fragrant ingredient in various perfumes, colognes, and other scented products, contributing a fresh, herbaceous, or minty note.
- Flavoring Agent: In the food and beverage industry, it can be employed as a flavoring agent to impart minty or cooling sensations in candies, chewing gums, oral care products, and other confectionery items.
- Aromatherapy: Some essential oils containing Isomenthone are used in aromatherapy for their perceived soothing or invigorating properties.
The Significance of CAS Numbers
A CAS Registry Number is a unique numerical identifier assigned by the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) to every chemical substance described in scientific literature. These numbers are crucial for providing an unambiguous and easily recognizable way to identify chemical substances globally, regardless of their various names, synonyms, or trade names.
Why CAS Numbers are Important:
- Global Standard: They serve as an international standard for chemical identification, facilitating communication and research worldwide.
- Accuracy and Precision: Each CAS number refers to one specific substance, eliminating confusion caused by different naming conventions or common names.
- Safety and Regulation: They are essential for regulatory purposes, safety data sheets (SDS), and chemical inventory management, ensuring proper handling, storage, and disposal of substances.
- Research and Development: Researchers rely on CAS numbers to accurately search databases and retrieve information about specific chemicals.
Key Information for CAS 491-07-6
The following table summarizes the essential details for CAS number 491-07-6:
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 491-07-6 |
| Substance Name | (±)-Isomenthone |
| Chemical Formula | C10H18O |
| Type | Cyclic Ketone, Monoterpene, Racemic Mixture |
| Common Uses | Flavoring agent, Fragrance ingredient in perfumes and personal care products |
| Occurrence | Naturally found in essential oils of Mentha species (e.g., peppermint, spearmint) |
For further details on this compound or other chemical substances, authoritative sources like the PubChem database can provide comprehensive information.
