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Phenylmagnesium bromide

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H5MgBr
CAS number
100-58-3
IUPAC name
magnesium;benzene
State
State

This compound is generally used in a solution of diethyl ether or tetrahydrofuran and is not typically encountered as a pure solid. In solution, it is used in organic synthesis, particularly in Grignard reactions.

Melting point (Celsius)
-40.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
233.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
234.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
507.00
General information
Molecular weight
181.31g/mol
Molar mass
181.3130g/mol
Density
1.1800g/cm3
Appearence

Phenylmagnesium bromide is typically found as a white to light yellow solid. It is often marketed as a solution in diethyl ether or tetrahydrofuran (THF) due to its reactivity and instability in pure form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Magnesium in Benzene

When discussing the solubility of magnesium in benzene, it's essential to consider the nature of both substances. As a general guideline, metallic solids like magnesium are known for their poor solubility in nonpolar solvents such as benzene.

Key Points to Remember:

  • Nature of the Solvent: Benzene is a nonpolar solvent, which typically dissolves nonpolar substances or weakly polar substances.
  • Nature of the Solute: Magnesium is a metallic element that does not interact favorably with nonpolar solvents.
  • Result: The solubility of magnesium in benzene is extremely low, if not negligible.

In summary, the solubility of magnesium in benzene can be characterized as very limited due to the inherent differences in polarity and molecular structure. As a result, one should expect to encounter minimal interaction between these two substances when mixed.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Magnesium Benzene

Magnesium benzene, or more commonly referred to as benzylmagnesium chloride, is a fascinating compound that enters the realm of organometallic chemistry. Here are some key points that highlight its significance:

  • Organometallic Chemistry: Magnesium benzene serves as a vital reagent in organic synthesis. It's an organomagnesium compound, bridging the realms of metal chemistry and organic reactivity.
  • Grignard Reagent: It is a type of Grignard reagent, which plays a crucial role in forming carbon-carbon bonds. This property makes it an indispensable tool for chemists working on various organic transformations.
  • Versatile Applications: Magnesium benzene can be utilized in synthesizing a diverse array of organic compounds, making it valuable in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and material sciences.
  • Reaction Mechanisms: The reactions involving magnesium benzene often lead to complex mechanisms where the reactivity of the benzene ring is significantly enhanced, allowing electrophilic substitutions and other transformations.
  • Historic Significance: The development and study of Grignard reagents, including magnesium benzene, revolutionized organic chemistry in the early 20th century, marking significant advancements in chemical synthesis techniques.

In the words of the great chemist Victor Grignard, "It is the method that counts, not the result." This statement emphasizes the profound impact that compounds like magnesium benzene have had on the field of chemistry, highlighting their role in enabling new and innovative synthetic methods.

As students and scientists continue to explore the properties and potentials of magnesium benzene and its counterparts, they uncover the profound interconnections between metals and organic molecules, enriching our understanding of chemical interactions.

Synonyms
Diphenylmagnesium
MAGNESIUM, DIPHENYL-
Magnesium diphenyl
K46A8S8PGH
DTXSID0075283
phenylmagnesium
DIPHENYLMAGNESIUM [MI]
DTXCID8041903
magnesium;benzene
555-54-4
UNII-K46A8S8PGH
Magnesiumdiphenyl
UN2005
Magnesium diphenyl [UN2005] [Spontaneously combustible]