Chromatographic investigation of the hydrophobic properties of isomeric naphthalene derivatives

Summary Selected isomeric α and β derivatives of naphthalene were semi-quantitatively compared in respect of their hydrophobic properties. Investigations were carried out by both adsorption and partition TLC chromatography; the solubilities of the individual substances in water were also determined. The results were explained of electronic and steric effects. Permanent dipole moments in terms (literature data) are also utilized to explain the comparatively weak hydrophobic properties of the β isomers as compared to the α isomers.