C10H16O2

C10H16O2 is the chemical formula representing a family of organic compounds that share ten carbon atoms, sixteen hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. As a formula, it does not specify a single structure, but rather encompasses multiple structural isomers and arrangements.

The formula contains three degrees of unsaturation, calculated as DBE = (2C + 2 − H)/2 for organics without nitrogen or halogens. This indicates combinations of rings and/or multiple bonds consistent with esters, lactones, or other oxygen-containing frameworks, such as carbonyl groups with adjacent rings or alkenes.

Common structural motifs among compounds with this formula include esters and cyclic esters (lactones), as well as alkenyl or hydroxy-substituted derivatives. The specific connectivity—whether the two oxygens are in an ester, a carboxyl group, or part of a lactone—greatly influences properties such as boiling point, solubility, and reactivity. Both alicyclic and linear backbones are possible, leading to a wide range of physical characteristics.

Molar mass for C10H16O2 is approximately 168.24 g/mol. Physical properties vary with the particular isomer, so compounds with this formula can exist as liquids or solids at room temperature and exhibit differing aromas, densities, and solubilities in organic solvents.

In practice, C10H16O2 is used in chemical databases to denote any compound matching the formula. Identifying a specific substance requires structural elucidation through analytical techniques such as NMR, mass spectrometry, and infrared spectroscopy. See also discussions of C10H16O2 isomers and related oxygen-containing hydrocarbons.