C5H11COOCH3

C5H11COOCH3 is the chemical formula for methyl pentanoate. It is an ester, a type of organic compound formed from the reaction of a carboxylic acid and an alcohol. In this case, the carboxylic acid is pentanoic acid (also known as valeric acid) and the alcohol is methanol. Methyl pentanoate is a colorless liquid with a fruity odor, often described as having notes of apple or apricot.

This compound finds applications in the fragrance and flavor industries due to its pleasant aroma. It can be used as an ingredient in perfumes, cosmetics, and food flavorings. Methyl pentanoate can be synthesized through esterification, a common organic chemistry reaction where pentanoic acid is reacted with methanol in the presence of an acid catalyst. The chemical structure consists of a five-carbon alkyl chain (C5H11) attached to a carbonyl group (CO) which is further bonded to a methoxy group (OCH3). Its molecular weight is approximately 116.16 g/mol.