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Methyl 2-chloroacetate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C3H5ClO2
CAS number
96-34-4
IUPAC name
methyl 2-chloroacetate
State
State

Methyl 2-chloroacetate is in a liquid state at room temperature and standard atmospheric conditions.

Melting point (Celsius)
-58.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
215.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
128.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
401.15
General information
Molecular weight
108.54g/mol
Molar mass
108.5360g/mol
Density
1.2050g/cm3
Appearence

Methyl 2-chloroacetate is a colorless, volatile liquid with a pleasant odor. It is typically clear and transparent, similar in appearance to many other organic esters and liquids used in industrial applications.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Methyl 2-Chloroacetate

Methyl 2-chloroacetate is a compound with interesting solubility characteristics that are primarily influenced by its polar functional groups. When considering the solubility of this compound, it is essential to note a few key factors:

  • Polarity: Methyl 2-chloroacetate contains both an ester group and a halogen, which contributes to its overall polarity. This polarity allows it to dissolve in polar solvents.
  • Solvent Compatibility: It is generally soluble in polar aprotic solvents such as acetone and dichloromethane, making those good choices for reactions involving this compound.
  • Solubility in Water: While it possesses some polar characteristics, methyl 2-chloroacetate is only slightly soluble in water due to the relatively limited ability of the ester bond to interact favorably with water molecules.
  • Practical Applications: Its solubility in organic solvents makes it useful in synthetic organic chemistry, particularly for reactions that require a non-aqueous environment.

In conclusion, while methyl 2-chloroacetate exhibits favorable solubility in certain organic solvents, it faces limitations in aqueous environments. This dual nature makes it versatile for various chemical processes while also indicating the importance of selecting the appropriate solvent system based on its solubility profile.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Methyl 2-chloroacetate

Methyl 2-chloroacetate is a fascinating chemical compound that belongs to the family of esters, known for their versatility in organic synthesis and industrial applications. This compound is particularly interesting for several reasons:

  • Versatile Synthetic Intermediate: Methyl 2-chloroacetate is widely used as an intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and fine chemicals. Its reactive nature makes it a valuable starting material in organic reactions.
  • Chirality and Optical Activity: The compound can exist in different stereochemical configurations, leading to potential chirality. This property is crucial in drug development, as the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals can be influenced by their stereochemistry.
  • Historical Importance: Methyl 2-chloroacetate first gained attention in the context of organic chemistry research, contributing to the development of reaction mechanisms and synthetic strategies that are foundational in modern chemistry.
  • Industrial Applications: Beyond pharmaceuticals, this compound is also employed in the production of polymers and surfactants, showcasing its versatility in various industries including materials science and manufacturing.

The compound's structure consists of a methyl group attached to a chloroacetate moiety, making it an intriguing subject for students and scientists alike. As you explore the world of organic compounds, remember this fun fact:

"The ability to manipulate and transform compounds like methyl 2-chloroacetate reflects the magic and creativity inherent in the field of chemistry."

In conclusion, methyl 2-chloroacetate serves as a prime example of how a simple structure can lead to complex reactions and numerous applications, truly embodying the essence of organic chemistry.

Synonyms
METHYL CHLOROACETATE
96-34-4
methyl 2-chloroacetate
Chloroacetic acid methyl ester
Methyl monochloroacetate
Methyl chloroethanoate
Acetic acid, chloro-, methyl ester
Methyl monochloracetate
Methyl alpha-chloroacetate
Monochloroacetic acid methyl ester
NSC 2635
UN2295
ClH2CCOOCH3
CCRIS 7749
Methylester kyseliny chloroctove
HSDB 5303
EINECS 202-501-1
Acetic acid, 2-chloro-, methyl ester
UNII-450VSB182I
Methylester kyseliny chloroctove [Czech]
2-Chloroacetic acid methyl ester
AI3-39185
450VSB182I
Monochloroacetic acid, methyl ester
NSC-2635
chloro-acetic acid methyl ester
chloroacetic acid, methyl ester
DTXSID9041576
METHYL CHLOROACETATE [MI]
Methyl ester of Chloroacetic acid
EC 202-501-1
METHYL .ALPHA.-CHLOROACETATE
MFCD00000931
UN 2295
UN-2295
methyl chloracetate
methyl chloroactate
methyl chioroacetate
methyl chloro-acetate
methyl-2-chloroacetate
methyl 2-chloro-acetate
Methyl alphachloroacetate
chloroacetic methyl ester
Methyl-alpha-chloroacetate
Methyl chloroacetate, 99%
chloroacetic acid methylester
Chloroacetic acid-methyl ester
SCHEMBL140582
DTXCID7021576
NSC2635
2-chloro-acetic acid methyl ester
Acetic acid, chloro, methyl ester
BCP30634
STL197883
AKOS000119621
DB-080424
Methyl chloroacetate [UN2295] [Poison]
NS00003013
EN300-19700
Q188382
F8889-8024
Methyl chloroacetate, PESTANAL(R), analytical standard
Chloroacetic acid methyl ester 1000 microg/mL in Methyl-tert-butyl ether
Methyl chloroacetate, certified reference material, 1000 mug/mL in methyl tert-butyl ether
2-Chloroacetic Acid Methyl Ester;Methyl Monochloroacetate; Methyl (c) paragraph sign-Chloroacetate; Methyl 2-Chloroacetate;Chloroacetic acid methyl ester
202-501-1