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Picric acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H3N3O7
CAS number
88-89-1
IUPAC name
2-methoxy-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene
State
State

Picric acid is generally found as a solid at room temperature. It is known for its potential explosive nature, especially when dry, which is why it is usually stored wet.

Melting point (Celsius)
122.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
395.60
Boiling point (Celsius)
300.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
573.00
General information
Molecular weight
229.10g/mol
Molar mass
229.1030g/mol
Density
1.7630g/cm3
Appearence

Picric acid is typically a yellow crystalline solid. It is often encountered as pale yellow needles or granules when in solid form. Due to its explosive properties, it is handled with caution and is often found dampened with water to reduce the risk of detonation.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-methoxy-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene

2-methoxy-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene (C9H8N4O5) exhibits some interesting characteristics when it comes to its solubility. Its behavior in various solvents can be summarized as follows:

  • It is generally considered insoluble in water, which is a common trait for many nitro compounds due to their nonpolar characteristics.
  • However, it is soluble in organic solvents such as:
    • Dichloromethane
    • Acetone
    • Ethyl acetate
  • The presence of the methoxy group contributes to enhancing its solubility in organic solvents, making it more versatile.

According to the general rule of thumb in chemistry, “like dissolves like.” This means that 2-methoxy-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene's polar functional groups help it to interact favorably with organic solvents, while its nonpolar characteristics hinder its interaction with polar solvents like water.

In summary, the solubility of 2-methoxy-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene is influenced by the balance between its functional groups, making it primarily soluble in organic media yet insoluble in aqueous environments, reflecting its unique chemical nature.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-Methoxy-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene

2-Methoxy-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene, often abbreviated as 2-METNB, is a fascinating compound with intriguing properties and applications in the field of chemistry. This compound is known for its nitro group substitution pattern and is classified as a nitroaromatic compound.

Key Features and Applications

  • Explosives and Propellants: Due to its highly nitro-substituted structure, 2-METNB is often explored for its potential use in explosives. The presence of multiple nitro groups enhances its energy content and stability.
  • Research Tool: It is used in research to study the effects of nitroaromatic compounds on biological systems, as well as their environmental impacts.
  • Colorimetric Detection: The compound serves as a precursor in the synthesis of various dyes, leveraging its reactive nitro groups for colorimetric applications.

Significance in Science

This compound is significant in the realm of synthetic chemistry, as scientists often investigate the reactivity of nitro substituents. Nitro compounds like 2-METNB can participate in a variety of reactions, including:

  • Nucleophilic aromatic substitution
  • Reduction reactions
  • Formation of azo compounds

Safety and Environmental Impact

While studying compounds such as 2-METNB, it is crucial to emphasize safety. Nitroaromatic compounds can be hazardous, and handling them requires caution. Researchers assess their effects on both human health and the environment, given their persistence and potential toxicity.

In summary, the study of 2-methoxy-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene opens doors to various scientific inquiries, providing insights into synthesis, reactivity, and environmental concerns. As chemists continue to explore its applications, this compound remains a noteworthy subject in the discipline.

Synonyms
Methyl picrate
2-Methoxy-1,3,5-trinitrobenzene
2,4,6-TRINITROANISOLE
606-35-9
Trinitroanisole
Anisole, 2,4,6-trinitro-
Benzene, 2-methoxy-1,3,5-trinitro-
trinitroanisol
CCRIS 5346
Ether, methyl 2,4,6-trinitrophenyl
NSC 36950
BRN 0429044
N042W5PE52
NSC-36950
DTXSID6060551
HSDB 8402
4-06-00-01456 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
DTXCID8042842
2,4,6-TRINITROPHENYL METHYL ETHER
620-419-8
Ether, methyl picryl
2-Methoxy-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene
UN0213
2,6-Trinitroanisole
Anisole,4,6-trinitro-
Ether,4,6-trinitrophenyl
Trinitroanisole [UN0213] [Explosive 1.1D]
SCHEMBL225343
UNII-N042W5PE52
FMXDVBRYDYFVGS-UHFFFAOYSA-N
NSC36950
STK331797
AKOS003235613
28653-16-9
NS00121361
InChI=1/C7H5N3O7/c1-17-7-5(9(13)14)2-4(8(11)12)3-6(7)10(15)16/h2-3H,1H