August 24, 2025 | UR Gate
Ibuprofen (C13H18O2) Structure, Properties and Nomenclature
Explore Ibuprofen (C13H18O2), a common NSAID. Learn its chemical structure, key properties, IUPAC name, synonyms, and its use as an effective anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic medication.
What is Ibuprofen (C13H18O2)?
Ibuprofen is a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) belonging to the propionic acid derivative class. It is primarily utilized to reduce fever, pain, and inflammation by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, the body's natural compounds that cause inflammation. Commonly found in over-the-counter medications, ibuprofen is effective in treating conditions such as headaches, menstrual cramps, arthritis, muscle aches, and fever. Its chemical structure, characterized by an isobutylphenyl group attached to a propionic acid moiety, is key to its therapeutic action.
Properties of Ibuprofen (C13H18O2)
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₁₃H₁₈O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 206.28 g/mol |
| Density | 1.03 g/cm³ |
| Boiling Point | 157 °C at 0.1 mmHg (decomposes at higher temperatures) |
| Melting Point | 75–78 °C |
| Hybridization | Aromatic carbons are sp² hybridized; aliphatic carbons are sp³ hybridized. |
| Appearance | White or off-white crystalline powder |
| Solubility | Practically insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, methanol, and acetone |
Nomenclature of Ibuprofen
- Common name: Ibuprofen
- IUPAC name: (RS)-2-(4-(2-methylpropyl)phenyl)propanoic acid
Synonyms
- 2-(4-Isobutylphenyl)propanoic acid
- Advil
- Motrin
- Nurofen
- Brufen
- Isobutylphenylpropionic acid
