August 22, 2025 | UR Gate
Cholesterol (C27H46O) Structure, Properties and Nomenclature
Explore Cholesterol (C27H46O), a vital steroid lipid. Learn its complex structure, key physical and chemical properties, common names, synonyms, and its essential roles in cell membranes and hormone synthesis.
What is Cholesterol (C27H46O)?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like molecule belonging to the steroid family, essential for the structure and function of all animal cells. It's a crucial component of cell membranes, providing fluidity and integrity, and also serves as a precursor for the synthesis of bile acids, steroid hormones (like estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol), and vitamin D. While often perceived negatively due to its association with cardiovascular disease when found in excess in the blood, cholesterol itself is vital for life. The human body, particularly the liver, produces most of the cholesterol it needs, with dietary intake from animal products like meat, eggs, and dairy also contributing.
Properties of Cholesterol (C27H46O)
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₂₇H₄₆O |
| Molecular Weight | 384.66 g/mol |
| Density | ~1.06 g/cm³ (solid) |
| Boiling Point | 360 °C (decomposes) |
| Melting Point | 148.5 °C |
| Hybridization | All carbon atoms in the fused ring system are sp³ hybridized, except for the carbon atom in the hydroxyl group which is sp³ hybridized. |
| Appearance | White or yellowish crystalline solid |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, acetone, and benzene |
Nomenclature of Cholesterol
- Common name: Cholesterol
- IUPAC name: (3S)-3-hydroxy-5-cholestene
Synonyms
- Cholest-5-en-3β-ol
- 5-Cholesten-3β-ol
- Cholest-5-en-3-ol
- Cholesterol, beta-
- beta-Cholesterol
- Cholesterin
- Cholesterole
- Cholesterolum
- 3β-Hydroxycholest-5-ene
