(S)-(−)-α-Methoxy-α-(trifluoromethyl)phenylacetic acid
(S)-(−)-α-Methoxy-α-(trifluoromethyl)phenylacetic acid (CAS: 17257-71-5), with the molecular formula C6H5C(OCH3)(CF3)CO2H and a molecular weight of 234.17, is a chiral carboxylic acid. It is a valuable tool in asymmetric synthesis and chiral resolution. This compound is utilized as a building block in organic synthesis, particularly for the preparation of enantiomerically pure compounds and for determining the enantiomeric purity of alcohols and amines.
- IUPAC
- (−)-MTPA,Mosher’s acid
- Synonyms
- (−)-MTPAMosher's acid(S)-2-Methoxy-2-(trifluoromethyl)-2-phenylacetic acid

Chiral Resolving Agent
This compound can be employed to separate enantiomers of chiral amines and alcohols through the formation of diastereomeric salts or esters. Its distinct chiral center allows for selective interactions, facilitating the isolation of a single enantiomer.
Chiral Derivatizing Agent
It is widely used as a Mosher's acid derivative to determine the absolute configuration and enantiomeric excess of chiral alcohols and amines via NMR spectroscopy. The resulting diastereomeric esters or amides exhibit distinct spectroscopic signals.
Organic Synthesis Building Block
As a chiral building block, it offers a trifluoromethyl group and a methoxy group adjacent to a phenyl ring, making it useful for introducing specific functionalities into complex organic molecules during synthesis.
| Molecular weight | 234.17 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | C6H5C(OCH3)(CF3)CO2H |
| Assay | 98% |
| Boiling point | 95-97 °C/0.05 mmHg(lit.) |
| Density | 1.303 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.474(lit.) |
| Optical activity | [α]20/D −70°, c = 1.6 in methanol |
| Melting point | 46-49 °C(lit.) |
| Optical purity | ee: 95% (GLC) |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 113 °C / 235.4 °F |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is (S)-(−)-α-Methoxy-α-(trifluoromethyl)phenylacetic acid used for?
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(S)-(−)-α-Methoxy-α-(trifluoromethyl)phenylacetic acid is primarily used as a chiral derivatizing agent (Mosher's acid) to determine the enantiomeric purity and absolute configuration of chiral alcohols and amines, and as a chiral building block in asymmetric synthesis.
What is the CAS number and formula for this compound?
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The CAS number is 17257-71-5 and the linear formula is C6H5C(OCH3)(CF3)CO2H.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies this chemical with an assay of 98%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should (S)-(−)-α-Methoxy-α-(trifluoromethyl)phenylacetic acid be handled safely?
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This compound is a warning substance that causes skin irritation (H315), serious eye irritation (H319), and may cause respiratory irritation (H335). Always use with appropriate personal protective equipment including a dust mask (type N95 US recommended), eyeshields, and gloves in a well-ventilated area.
Is this product available for export?
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Yes, Tech Serve Solutions is a specialist global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals and reagents, including this compound.
How can I request a quote or sample?
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To request a quote or sample, please contact our sales team through the provided channels on our website, specifying the product name or CAS number.
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