C21H23NO5

C21H23NO5 is the molecular formula for chemical species that contain 21 carbon atoms, 23 hydrogen atoms, one nitrogen atom, and five oxygen atoms. As a molecular formula, it does not specify a unique structure; multiple structural isomers can share this same composition.

The molecule has an approximate molecular weight of 369.4 g/mol. Its degree of unsaturation, calculated as DoU = (2C + 2 + N − H − X)/2 (with no halogens in this formula), equals 11. This high DoU value suggests the possible presence of aromatic rings or other multiple-bond systems, along with carbonyl or ether functionalities indicated by the five oxygens and one nitrogen.

Because many distinct structures can correspond to C21H23NO5, the properties, reactivity, and potential applications vary widely among individual isomers. Some isomers may feature heterocycles or amide, ester, or phenolic groups, but specific characteristics depend on the exact arrangement of atoms.

In practice, identifying a compound with this formula requires additional structural information, such as spectroscopic data (NMR, IR, MS) and, if possible, crystallographic analysis, to determine the precise connectivity and stereochemistry. The formula is commonly used in chemical databases and literature as a descriptor for a class of compounds, but it does not by itself assign a particular identity, function, or use.

See also: molecular formula, isomer, degrees of unsaturation.