August 25, 2025 | UR Gate
Nicotine (C10H14N2) Structure, Properties and Nomenclature
Explore Nicotine (C10H14N2), an alkaloid found in tobacco plants. Learn its structure, key properties, IUPAC name, synonyms, and its stimulant effects, addictive properties, and role in smoking cessation aids.
What is Nicotine (C10H14N2)?
Nicotine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found primarily in the tobacco plant (Nicotiana tabacum) and also in smaller amounts in other plants of the nightshade family. It is a potent stimulant and a highly addictive substance, acting as an agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain and peripheral nervous system. The rapid absorption of nicotine, commonly through smoking or vaping, leads to a release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which contributes to its pleasurable and addictive effects. While known for its association with tobacco use and associated health risks, nicotine is also studied for its potential therapeutic applications in conditions like Parkinson's disease and ulcerative colitis, and is the active ingredient in nicotine replacement therapies used for smoking cessation.
Properties of Nicotine (C10H14N2)
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₁₀H₁₄N₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 162.23 g/mol |
| Density | 1.01 g/cm³ (at 20°C) |
| Boiling Point | 247 °C (at 760 mmHg) |
| Melting Point | -79 °C |
| Hybridization | Pyridinic nitrogen is sp² hybridized; Pyrrolidine nitrogen is sp³ hybridized. Carbon atoms in the pyridine ring are sp² hybridized, others are sp³. |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow oily liquid, darkens to brown on exposure to air or light. |
| Solubility | Miscible with water below pH 6 and above pH 8; soluble in alcohol, ether, and oils. |
Nomenclature of Nicotine
- Common name: Nicotine
- IUPAC name: (S)-3-(1-methylpyrrolidin-2-yl)pyridine
Synonyms
- (S)-(-)-Nicotine
- (-)-Nicotine
- 3-(1-Methyl-2-pyrrolidinyl)pyridine
- Tobacco alkaloid
- S-Nicotine
