C28H44O

C28H44O is a molecular formula representing one or more organic compounds that contain 28 carbon atoms, 44 hydrogen atoms, and a single oxygen atom. As a formula alone, it does not identify a unique substance; many distinct structures can share the same elemental composition.

The nominal molecular weight of C28H44O is approximately 396.66 g/mol. The degree of unsaturation (DBE) for this formula is 7, calculated as DBE = C − H/2 + N/2 + 1 (with no nitrogen). A DBE of 7 indicates a combination of rings and pi bonds sufficient to create a polycyclic framework, depending on the specific connectivity of the atoms.

With only one oxygen atom, potential functional groups include a hydroxyl group (alcohol), an ether linkage, or a carbonyl-containing group such as a ketone or aldehyde. When combined with a relatively high DBE, the structure is likely to feature multiple rings and unsaturations, which is characteristic of polycyclic frameworks such as steroids or terpenoid derivatives, though many alternative structures are possible.

Because many isomers can share the same formula, identifying a specific compound requires structural data. Analytical methods such as high-resolution mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H and 13C) are typically used to determine exact composition and connectivity, often complemented by X-ray crystallography if crystals are available.

In summary, C28H44O denotes a formula with multiple possible isomers and no single fixed identity without additional structural information.