Methyl 3-bromo-2-oxobutanoate

China [CN]

Structural Characteristics

This molecule is a methyl butyrate derivative with three key reactive functional groups:

Parent structure: The carboxyl group of butyric acid forms an ester with a methyl group (-CH₃), forming a methyl ester group (-COOCH₃);

Substituents: A ketocarbonyl group (C=O) at position 2 and a bromine atom (-Br) at position 3, forming an "α-oxo-β-bromo" structure (relative to the ester group, position 2 is α and position 3 is β).

This structure gives the molecule both electrophilicity (ketocarbonyl and ester groups) and a leaving group (bromine atom), resulting in high reactivity and making it an important building block in organic synthesis.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance: Typically a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pungent odor.

Boiling Point: Approximately 75-78°C/10 mmHg (under reduced pressure to avoid decomposition at atmospheric pressure).

Density: Approximately 1.60 g/cm³ (20°C, experimental value). Refractive Index: n20/D approximately 1.475-1.480 (reflects molecular optical properties).

Solubility: Sparingly soluble in water, readily soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, acetone, and dichloromethane, and highly compatible with most organic reaction solvents.

Stability: Poor stability at room temperature, prone to decomposition upon heating or in alkaline conditions, potentially resulting in bromine elimination reactions. Storage requires low temperature (2-8°C), protected from light, and sealed.