TRIS hydrochloride

TRIS hydrochloride, also known as Tris HCl or Tris-HCl, is a commonly used biological buffer in various biochemical and molecular biology applications. It is a salt form of Tris (Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane) that is combined with hydrochloric acid to form a stable compound.

Here are some key points about TRIS hydrochloride:

1. Chemical Formula and Structure: TRIS hydrochloride has the chemical formula C4H12ClNO3 and a molar mass of 157.60 g/mol. Its chemical structure consists of a Tris molecule combined with a chloride ion.

2. Buffer Properties: TRIS hydrochloride is an effective buffer due to its ability to maintain a relatively constant pH even when small amounts of acid or base are added. It has a pKa value of approximately 8.1, making it suitable for buffering in the pH range of 7.0-9.0.

3. pH Range: TRIS hydrochloride is commonly used for biological applications requiring a slightly basic pH. It is often used in the range of pH 7.2-9.0.

4. Solubility and Storage: TRIS hydrochloride is highly soluble in water, making it easy to prepare buffer solutions. It is generally stored as a solid powder at room temperature, protected from moisture.

5. Applications: TRIS hydrochloride is widely used in biochemical and molecular biology research. It is commonly used as a buffer in various laboratory procedures, such as DNA and protein electrophoresis, enzyme assays, and immunoblotting. TRIS HCl helps maintain a stable pH environment for the optimal functioning of enzymes and other biological macromolecules.

6. Safety Considerations: As with any chemical substance, it is important to handle TRIS hydrochloride with proper safety precautions. It is recommended to use gloves, protective eyewear, and follow appropriate handling and disposal procedures.