Caffeine Molecule
Caffeine Quick Statistics
Formula: C8H10N4O2 Boiling point: 178 °C Density: 1.23 g/cm³ Melting point: 235 °C IUPAC ID: 1,3,7-Trimethylpurine-2,6-dione Molar mass: 194.19 g/mol CAS ID: 58-08-2 You might not usually think of caffeine as a molecule, and more of just a quick hit of energy in a cup of coffee, however this does not have to be the case. We will educate you all about every aspect of caffeine, and teach you all the things you never thought you would know. Enjoy your reading!!! Caffeine's Chemistry Caffeine has a molecular formula of C8H10N4O2. This mean it has 8 carbon atoms, 10 hydrogen atoms, 4 nitrogen atoms and 2 oxygen atoms. This mean you could call caffeine carbonic nitro-hydroxide but don't because it isn't actually called that... Caffeine is an alkaloid that is soluble in water. It is not too reactive, otherwise it wouldn't be so great to drink, and it is a relatively large atom, especially for atoms with carbon in them. Caffeine Caffeine is a Central Nervous System stimulant found naturally in over 60 plants. However, when consumed in pure form, it can be the cause of overdoses and addiction. The effects of caffeine on your body usually reach their peak an hour after consumption, and die away after six hours. Uses of Caffeine Caffeine is sometimes found in drinks, food, medicines and is also a legal drug. It can be found in over 60 plants, and has a lot of effects on the body when consumed. Effects can include increased heart rate, weight loss, dizziness, heart palpitations and increased alertness, but are not limited to these. Caffeine as a Drug Pure caffeine is found in the form of a white powder, which is 100% caffeine. The dangerous thing about this is that whilst you would have to drink A LOT of coffee to have an overdose because a coffee doesn't have just caffeine in it, pure caffeine is strong and potent. You can die from a caffeine overdose, just like any other drug. In fact, caffeine is the most widely used drug in America, even more used than alcohol, with around 80% of adults drinking at least a cup of coffee a day, but more commonly 2 to 4 cups. |
Caffeine is the most widely used drug in the world! Caffeine has an even number of atoms in it, and every element in caffeine has an even number of atoms. This makes it less reactive because bonds are more stable with even numbers. |
To read the brochure on caffeine, go to our Publications page!