C36H72O4

C36H72O4 is a molecular formula used to denote organic compounds that contain 36 carbon atoms, 72 hydrogen atoms, and 4 oxygen atoms. The nominal molecular weight for this formula is approximately 568.97 g/mol.

The degree of unsaturation for C36H72O4 can be calculated as DoU = (2C + 2 − H)/2, which yields DoU = 1. This indicates the molecule possesses either one ring, or one double bond, or a carbonyl-containing functional group that contributes a single degree of unsaturation. The formula alone does not specify which structural feature is present.

Oxygen atoms in a formula of this type can be part of various functional groups, including alcohols, ethers, carbonyls (such as ketones, aldehydes, esters, or lactones), or carboxylic derivatives. Because multiple functional groups can fit a single empirical formula, many distinct structural isomers could share C36H72O4.

As a result, C36H72O4 does not identify a unique compound. It could correspond to a family of related structures, ranging from cyclic compounds to open-chain molecules bearing a single unsaturation and several oxygen-containing groups. Determining the exact substance requires additional information, such as spectroscopic data (NMR, IR) or specific structural details.

In summary, C36H72O4 provides the elemental composition and a single degree of unsaturation but does not, by itself, define a specific molecule.