dodecanoate

Dodecanoate refers to the anion or salt of dodecanoic acid, also known as lauric acid. Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid with a twelve-carbon chain. As a dodecanoate, it typically exists as a salt when it combines with a metal cation, such as sodium dodecanoate or potassium dodecanoate. These salts are commonly known as soaps. For example, sodium dodecanoate (C11H23COONa) is a principal component of many soaps due to its amphipathic nature, meaning it has both a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and a hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail. This property allows it to emulsify fats and oils, facilitating their removal during cleaning. Dodecanoates are also found in various esters, which have applications in fragrances, cosmetics, and as plasticizers. The synthesis of dodecanoates typically involves the saponification of triglycerides, which are fats and oils rich in lauric acid, using a strong base like sodium hydroxide.