Chlorophyll

Name:
Chlorophyll
Detailed information:
See Photosynthesis; Porphyrin; Chelate.Note: An experimental use of chlorophyll to act as energy converter in a synthetic photovoltaic cell has aroused interest in connection with solar-energy research. The cell is termed a synthetic leaf, because it is an attempt to imitate the energy-trapping function of a natural leaf.

Chemistry structure:
Properties:
Chlorophyll a: C55H72MgN4O5. Blue-green, microcrystalline wax; approximately three times as plentiful as chlorophyll b: mp 117–120C. Freely soluble in ether, ethanol, acetone, chloroform, carbon disulfide, benzene; sparingly soluble in cold methanol; insoluble in petroleum ether. The alcoholic solution is blue-green with a deep-red fluorescence. Chlorophyll b: C55H70MgN4O6. Yellow-green, microcrystalline wax. Sparingly soluble in absolute alcohol, ether. Ether solution has a brilliant green color. Solutions with other organic solvents are usually green to yellow-green with red fluorescence. Chlorophyll c: Occurs in marine organisms and may be as important as chlorophyll b.
Derivation:
Alcoholic extraction of green plants; isolation by chromatography.
Grade:
Aqueous, alcoholic, or oil solutions; water solutions are prepared by saponification of oil-soluble chlorophyll.
Use:
Colorant for soaps, oils, fats, waxes, liquors, confectionery, preserves, cosmetics, perfumes; dentistry, source of phytol, sensitizer for color film, toothpaste additive, deodorant.