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4,4,4-Trinitrobutanoic acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C4H5N3O8
CAS number
4731-90-8
IUPAC name
4,4,4-trinitrobutanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, 4,4,4-Trinitrobutanoic acid is found in a solid state. Its stable solid form allows it to be safely handled under standard laboratory conditions, although care should be taken due to its potentially hazardous decomposition products typical of nitro compounds.

Melting point (Celsius)
128.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
401.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
341.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
614.15
General information
Molecular weight
211.09g/mol
Molar mass
211.1040g/mol
Density
1.8510g/cm3
Appearence

4,4,4-Trinitrobutanoic acid appears as a yellow or light yellow solid crystalline powder. Its appearance is consistent with many other nitro-containing organic compounds, which often exhibit vibrant colors due to their complex molecular structure. The color intensity can vary based on the degree of purity and the specific form in which the compound is crystallized.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4,4,4-Trinitrobutanoic Acid

4,4,4-Trinitrobutanoic acid (C5H6N4O7) exhibits unique solubility characteristics that are noteworthy for researchers and chemists alike. This compound is notable for its relatively low solubility in water, which is typical for many nitro compounds due to their polar functional groups and bulky structure.

When considering the solubility of 4,4,4-trinitrobutanoic acid, here are some key points:

  • Hydrophilicity vs. Hydrophobicity: The presence of the nitro groups (-NO2) tends to enhance intermolecular forces with water, yet the overall structure limits extensive interactions.
  • Solvent Compatibility: It shows improved solubility in organic solvents such as acetone, ethanol, and ether, where the non-polar regions can interact better.
  • Temperature Effects: Like many solids, the solubility may increase with elevated temperatures, making it crucial to consider temperature when preparing solutions.

Overall, understanding the solubility properties of 4,4,4-trinitrobutanoic acid is essential for applications in synthesis and chemical reactions. Its solubility profile indicates that while it is not easily soluble in water, solubility can be optimized in suitable organic solvents. As the saying goes, “the solvent is the key to the compound,” and this holds true in the case of this intriguing acid.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 4,4,4-Trinitrobutanoic Acid

4,4,4-Trinitrobutanoic acid, often abbreviated as TNBA, is a fascinating compound that belongs to the family of nitro compounds. This compound stands out due to its unique structure and a variety of applications:

  • Explosive Characteristics: TNBA is primarily known for its potential use as an explosive. Its high nitrogen content makes it a subject of study in the field of energetic materials.
  • Usage in Research: Researchers have explored this compound for its thermodynamic properties and stability, contributing invaluable insights into the behavior of nitro compounds under different conditions.
  • Environmental Concerns: The study of TNBA has also raised awareness regarding the environmental impacts of nitro compounds, leading to ongoing discussions about pollution and the ecological footprint of explosives.

Applications in Chemistry

The synthesis and analysis of 4,4,4-trinitrobutanoic acid provide essential experience for chemists working with:

  • Energetic Materials: As a precursor to various formulations, TNBA’s versatility is evident in both military and industrial applications.
  • Analytical Chemistry: Investigating its properties can enhance one's skills in quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques.

In the words of chemist Alfred Nobel, "All science is nothing but the refinement of everyday thinking." As new discoveries are made regarding compounds like TNBA, we get closer to refining our grasp of chemical behaviors and advancing technological applications.

This compound, while perhaps niche, showcases the intricate balance between practical application and safety considerations in the chemistry world.

Synonyms
4,4,4-Trinitrobutanoic acid
4,4,4-Trinitrobutyric acid
4,4,4Trinitrobutanoic acid
Butyric acid, 4,4,4trinitro
Butanoic acid, 4,4,4trinitro
gamma,gamma,gammaTrinitrobutyric acid
5029-46-9
USAF SE-3
BUTANOIC ACID, 4,4,4-TRINITRO-
BA 2759
NSC-71733
Butyric acid, 4,4,4-trinitro-
NSC 71733
gamma,gamma,gamma-Trinitrobutyric acid
BRN 1914519
WLN: WNXNWNW2VQ
4,4-Trinitrobutyric acid
5VND4P7SPH
4,4-Trinitrobutanoic acid
Butyric acid,4,4-trinitro-
Butanoic acid,4,4-trinitro-
SCHEMBL4162551
4,4,4-trinitro- Butanoic acid
DTXSID40198293
NSC71733
.gamma.,.gamma.-Trinitrobutyric acid
AKOS003267118