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Trinitrotoluene (TNT)

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Identification
Molecular formula
C7H5N3O6
CAS number
118-96-7
IUPAC name
2-methyl-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene
State
State

TNT is a solid at room temperature. It remains stable and does not react with water under these conditions. The stability of TNT makes it safe to handle under controlled conditions, although it is a well-known explosive.

Melting point (Celsius)
80.35
Melting point (Kelvin)
353.50
Boiling point (Celsius)
295.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
568.15
General information
Molecular weight
227.13g/mol
Molar mass
227.1310g/mol
Density
1.6540g/cm3
Appearence

Trinitrotoluene (TNT) appears as a pale yellow crystalline solid. It is notable for its distinct color which may vary slightly depending on purity and any impurities present. The crystals can be shiny and may exhibit a somewhat waxy appearance. It is stable and does not spontaneously explode or ignite under ambient conditions.

Comment on solubility

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

2-methyl-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene, commonly known as picric acid, presents interesting characteristics when it comes to solubility. This compound, known for its strong explosive properties, has a solubility profile that is influenced by its molecular structure. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Polar Nature: The presence of multiple nitro groups (-NO2) contributes to the compound's polar nature, which enhances its interaction with polar solvents.
  • Water Solubility: 2-methyl-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene is moderately soluble in water, typically around 0.1 g per 100 mL, making it a valuable consideration in various applications.
  • Organic Solvents: It exhibits good solubility in organic solvents such as acetone, ethanol, and ether, which can facilitate its use in laboratory settings and synthesis processes.
  • pH Influence: The solubility can be affected by pH levels, as alterations can impact the ionization of the nitro groups.

Understanding the solubility of 2-methyl-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene not only aids in its handling and application but is also crucial in assessing its environmental impact and safety protocols. As one might say, "The chain of solubility is as strong as the components it carries!"

Interesting facts

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

2-Methyl-1,3,5-trinitro-benzene, commonly known as 2-Methyl-TNT, is an intriguing compound that is often studied for its properties and applications in various fields. Here are some fascinating aspects of this compound:

  • Explosive Characteristics: 2-Methyl-TNT is notable for its explosive potential. It is a nitro compound, which means it contains nitro groups that are highly energetic and can readily undergo decomposition to release energy explosively.
  • Structural Uniqueness: The placement of three nitro groups at the 1, 3, and 5 positions of the benzene ring, along with a methyl group at the 2 position, contributes to its distinct properties. This unique structure can affect the stability and reactivity of the compound.
  • Environmental Impact: As a nitroaromatic compound, 2-Methyl-TNT is of interest in environmental studies due to its persistence in soil and water. Understanding its degradation and transformation in the environment is crucial for assessing ecological risks.
  • Precursor to Other Compounds: This compound can act as a precursor for the synthesis of other significant nitroaromatic compounds used in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Researchers are keen to explore its role in synthetic organic chemistry.
  • Historical Context: The study of compounds like 2-Methyl-TNT has roots in military applications, where it has been utilized during different periods in history as an explosive formulation. The importance of such compounds extends into modern safety regulations and handling protocols.
  • Research Applications: Scientists are continually exploring the underlying mechanisms of its explosive behavior and finding ways to make safer variations. The study of 2-Methyl-TNT directly feeds into fields like material science and safety engineering.

As we further our understanding of this compound, it sheds light on not only its utility but also the broader implications it has for safety, environmental health, and chemical innovation.

Synonyms
2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE
Trinitrotoluene
118-96-7
Trotyl
Tritol
s-Trinitrotoluol
s-Trinitrotoluene
Tolite
2-Methyl-1,3,5-trinitrobenzene
sym-Trinitrotoluol
trinitrotoluol
Gradetol
Tritol (explosive)
Trojnitrotoluen
Tolit
Tnt-tolite
TNT
alpha-TNT
2,4,6-Trinitrotoluol
sym-Trinitrotoluene
Toluene, 2,4,6-trinitro-
Trinitrotoluen
Benzene, 2-methyl-1,3,5-trinitro-
1-Methyl-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene
NCI-C56155
2,4,6-TNT
NSC 36949
CCRIS 1299
2,4,6-Trinitrotolueen
HSDB 1146
UNII-H43RF5TRM5
Trinitrotoluene, 2,4,6-
EINECS 204-289-6
.alpha.-TNT
DTXSID7024372
CHEBI:46053
NSC-36949
H43RF5TRM5
UN 0209 (Salt/Mix)
UN 1356 (Salt/Mix)
TRINITROTOLUENE [HSDB]
trilit
EC 204-289-6
2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE [MI]
2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE [IARC]
2,4,6-trinitritoluene
TNT-tolite [French]
Trojnitrotoluen [Polish]
2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE (IARC)
TNL
2,4,6-Trinitrotolueen [Dutch]
2,4,6-Trinitrotoluol [German]
UN0209
UN1356
symTrinitrotoluene
alpha-trinitrotoluol
Trinitrotoluene, dry
Trinitrotoluene, wet
2,6-Trinitrotoluol
2,6-Trinitrotolueen
2,6-Trinitrotoluene
2,4,6-trinitro-toluene
SCHEMBL20676
Spa-S-345
1Methyl2,4,6trinitrobenzene
WLN: WNR B1 CNW ENW
2-Methyl-1,5-trinitrobenzene
DTXCID904372
Toluene,4,6-trinitro- (wet)
CHEMBL1236345
SCHEMBL12305492
1-methyl-2,4,6-trinitrotoluene
NSC36949
Trinitrotoluene or TNT, dry or wetted with < 30% water, by mass
AKOS001092689
DB01676
2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (ACGIH:OSHA)
NS00009789
Q170167
Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not <30% water, by mass
Z57056414
2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT) 10 microg/mL in Cyclohexane
2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT) 100 microg/mL in Cyclohexane
Trinitrotoluene or TNT, dry or wetted with <30% water, by mass
2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT) 1000 microg/mL in Acetonitrile:Methanol
Partricin, methyl ester, mixt. with O-2-naphthalenyl methyl(3-methylphenyl)carbamothioate
Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not <30% water, by mass [UN1356] [Flammable solid]
131612-90-3
204-289-6
Trinitrotoluene or TNT, dry or wetted with <30% water, by mass [UN0209] [Explosive 1.1D]