2methylbutanoic

2-Methylbutanoic acid, also known as 2-methylbutyric acid or alpha-methylbutyric acid, is a branched-chain carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C5H10O2. It is a structural isomer of pentanoic acid. At room temperature, it is a colorless liquid with a characteristic pungent, somewhat unpleasant odor, often described as cheesy or rancid. It is soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ether but has limited solubility in water.

This compound is found naturally in a variety of sources, including the milk of mammals and certain fermented foods. It is also a component of some essential oils. Industrially, 2-methylbutanoic acid can be synthesized through various chemical routes, such as the oxidation of 2-methylbutan-1-ol or through Grignard reactions.

2-Methylbutanoic acid has applications in several fields. It serves as a building block in the synthesis of esters, which are often used as flavoring agents and fragrances due to their fruity or sweet aromas. It can also be employed in the production of certain pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its presence in biological systems, particularly in metabolic processes, is also a subject of study.