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Deuterium

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Identification
Molecular formula
D2
CAS number
7782-39-0
IUPAC name
dideuterium
State
State

Dideuterium exists as a gas at room temperature under standard atmospheric pressure. It behaves similarly to molecular hydrogen in terms of physical state but with altered thermodynamic properties due to the variation in atomic mass.

Melting point (Celsius)
-254.30
Melting point (Kelvin)
18.80
Boiling point (Celsius)
-249.70
Boiling point (Kelvin)
23.50
General information
Molecular weight
4.03g/mol
Molar mass
4.0280g/mol
Density
0.1670g/cm3
Appearence

Dideuterium, also known as heavy hydrogen gas, is colorless and odorless, visually indistinguishable from hydrogen. However, due to the presence of heavier isotopes of hydrogen, its mass is greater than protium-based H2.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Dideuterium

Dideuterium, with the chemical formula D2 or ²H2, is a stable isotope of hydrogen. Its solubility characteristics are quite unique and can be summarized as follows:

  • Solvent Interaction: Dideuterium generally exhibits similar solubility behavior to regular hydrogen (H2) in various solvents.
  • In Water: While dideuterium itself does not dissolve in water like other soluble gases, it can, however, interact with water molecules in a different manner due to the isotopic substitution.
  • In Organic Solvents: It shows good solubility in organic solvents, similar to H2, as it forms van der Waals interactions.
  • Temperature Dependence: As with many gases, its solubility is affected by temperature; increased temperatures can decrease solubility.

It is important to remember that while dideuterium may exhibit similarities to its lighter counterpart, the presence of the heavier isotope can lead to slight variations in solubility due to altered molecular interactions.

In summary, the solubility of dideuterium is akin to that of ordinary hydrogen, with notable isotopic effects that may influence its behavior in different environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Dideuterium

Dideuterium, also known as deuterium oxide or more commonly referred to as "heavy hydrogen", is an isotope of hydrogen that contains two neutrons in its nucleus instead of the usual one. This unique feature gives it some fascinating characteristics:

  • Isotopic Variations: In nature, hydrogen exists as three isotopes: protium (1H), deuterium (2H), and tritium (3H). Dideuterium represents the stable isotope found abundantly in seawater, contributing to the study of isotopic distributions in hydrological cycles.
  • Applications in Research: Dideuterium is extensively used in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy as a solvent. Its unique properties allow scientists to observe the behavior of molecules in a way that is not possible with regular hydrogen.
  • Tracing Studies: Due to its distinct neutron composition, dideuterium can be utilized in tracer studies. This is essential in biochemistry to track metabolic pathways and reactions in living organisms.
  • Water Research: Deuterium oxide, often called "heavy water," is a compound made with dideuterium. It has interesting properties, such as differing effects on biological systems compared to regular water, making it a subject of studies in genetics and cellular processes.
  • Historical Significance: The discovery of deuterium in 1931 by Harold Urey was a significant milestone in nuclear chemistry. It not only provided deeper insights into isotopes but also earned Urey a Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1934.

In summary, dideuterium is more than just a hydrogen isotope; it plays a crucial role in various scientific fields, from environmental science to nuclear chemistry. As scientists continue to explore its unique properties, the potential applications of dideuterium promise further advancements in research and technology.

Synonyms
DEUTERIUM
Dideuterium
Heavy hydrogen
Hydrogen-2
Diplogen
hydrogen 2
Hydrogen-d2
Deuterium molecule
UNII-AR09D82C7G
Hydrogen, isotope of mass 2
Deuterium, compressed
HSDB 294
DEUTERIUM [MI]
DEUTERIUM [HSDB]
HYDROGEN H-2
EINECS 231-952-7
UN1957
MOLECULAR HYDROGEN H-2
DTXSID2064810
CHEBI:29294
UN 1957
(2)H2
Hydrogend2
Hydrogen2
DEUTERIUM MOL.
DEUTERIUM (D2)
DTXCID9048011
ufhflcqgniynrp-vvkomztbsa-n
7782-39-0
AR09D82C7G
D2
Deuterium (gas)
MFCD00064812
Deuterium, 99.7 atom % D
Deuterium, 99.8 atom % D
Deuterium, 99.9 atom % D
Deuterium, 99.96 atom % D
NS00076244
Deuterium, compressed [UN1957] [Flammable gas]
Q6419441