4methyl2oxopiperidine

4-methyl-2-oxopiperidine is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H11NO. It is a cyclic amide, also known as a lactam, belonging to the piperidine family. Specifically, it is a derivative of piperidine where a carbonyl group is present at the 2-position and a methyl group is attached at the 4-position. This molecule features a six-membered ring containing five carbon atoms and one nitrogen atom, with the nitrogen atom being part of the amide functional group.

The physical properties of 4-methyl-2-oxopiperidine, such as its melting point, boiling point, and solubility, are dependent on its specific stereochemistry if chiral centers are present. The presence of the methyl group at the 4-position can lead to the existence of stereoisomers. This compound can be synthesized through various organic reactions, often involving cyclization of suitable precursor molecules. Its chemical reactivity is characteristic of lactams, which can undergo hydrolysis, reduction, and reactions involving the nitrogen atom. 4-methyl-2-oxopiperidine may find applications in organic synthesis as a building block for more complex molecules or as a research chemical. Information regarding its specific biological activity or industrial uses is not widely documented in readily accessible literature.