1octen3one

1-Octen-3-one, also known as oct-1-en-3-one or vinyl<bos>en-3-one, is a chemical compound with the formula C8H14O. It is a volatile organic compound belonging to the class of ketones. This compound is characterized by its distinctive mushroom-like odor and is found naturally in various sources.

It is a significant aroma compound contributing to the smell of mushrooms, and it is also produced by some fungi and insects. 1-Octen-3-one is formed through enzymatic oxidation of linoleic acid. Its presence is detectable at very low concentrations, making it a key component in the characteristic aroma of many edible mushrooms. Beyond its presence in fungi, it has also been identified in certain cheeses and in the breath of humans and animals.

In terms of its chemical properties, 1-octen-3-one is a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature. It is sparingly soluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. Its molecular structure features an eight-carbon chain with a double bond between the first and second carbon atoms and a ketone functional group on the third carbon. This structure is responsible for its characteristic aroma and reactivity. It is often used as a flavoring agent in the food industry to impart mushroom-like notes to various products.