MOLECULE

1-Nonanol

1-Nonanol, also known as N-nonyl alcohol or 1-hydroxynonane, belongs to the class of organic compounds known as fatty alcohols. These are aliphatic alcohols consisting of a chain of a least six carbon atoms. 1-Nonanol is a straight chain fatty alcohol with nine carbon atoms and the molecular formula CH3(CH2)8OH. It is a colorless to slightly yellow liquid with a citrus odor similar to citronella oil. 1-Nonanol is a very hydrophobic molecule, practically insoluble in water. 1-Nonanol is a bitter, clean, and dusty tasting compound. 1-Nonanol is widespread in nature and it is found in the highest concentration within a few different foods, such as corns, winter savories, and sweet oranges and in a lower concentration in mandarin orange (clementine, tangerine), limes, and peppermints. 1-Nonanol has also been detected, but not quantified in, gingers, rocket salad, muskmelons, mung beans, and evergreen blackberries. It also occurs in oils of orange, citronella and lemon and it is also found in cheese, prickly pears and bread. 1-Nonanol is one of several alcohols that are found in cannabis plants (PMID: 6991645).