Is the Polarity of Large CHO Compounds Affected by Size and OH Group Position?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the polarity of larger organic compounds, specifically lignans and tannins, and how their size and the positions of hydroxyl (-OH) groups may influence their overall polarity. The inquiry is aimed at understanding the relationship between molecular structure and polarity for a report.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the polarity of larger CxHyOz compounds, particularly lignans and tannins, and expresses a desire for a deeper understanding beyond the presence of -OH groups.
  • Another participant asserts that both the size of the compounds and the positions of the -OH groups do influence overall polarity.
  • A further response suggests that if -OH groups are positioned on the "outside" of the molecule and are more acidic than typical alcohol groups, this may lead to increased polarity, although this is described as a superficial understanding of the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is a general agreement that the size of the compounds and the positions of the -OH groups affect polarity, but the discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics and complexities of these influences.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the complexity of the topic, suggesting that a comprehensive understanding may require extensive exploration beyond the initial claims made about -OH groups and polarity.

paraflax
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Hello!
Does anyone have information or knowledge on the polarity of larger CxHyOz compunds?
To be more specific, the compunds that I'm interested in are different kinds of lignans such as Hydroxymatarésinol (C20H22O7) and tannins such as taxifoline (C15H12O7) just to name a few.

As I understand it, compunds with -OH groups tend to be polar so I want to say that they are polar, but I'm wondering if the size of the compunds and/or the positions of the OH-groups have any influence on the overall polarity?

It's for a report want to be able to back up my claims of polarity or non-polarity with more than just the -OH groups argument =)

Any help will be greatly appreciated =)
 
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paraflax said:
I'm wondering if the size of the compunds and/or the positions of the OH-groups have any influence on the overall polarity?

Yes & yes.
 
As I thought, would you mind explaining it a bit more if you can?
 
Sorry, I can't.

Don't get me wrong - it is not that I don't want to help, but the topic itself is worth a thick book.

In general if the -OH groups are at the "outside" of the molecule, and if they are more acidic than typical alcohol groups, you can expect the molecule to be more polar. But it is just scratching of the surface.
 
I was afraid of that, but thanks anyway. I'll keep looking.
 

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