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Oxalonitrile

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Identification
Molecular formula
C2N2
CAS number
460-19-5
IUPAC name
oxalonitrile
State
State

At room temperature, oxalonitrile is in a liquid state. Its volatility and low boiling point allow it to rapidly transition into the vapor phase. It is free-flowing and can easily be poured from one container to another, similar to common solvents used in laboratory settings.

Melting point (Celsius)
-11.60
Melting point (Kelvin)
261.55
Boiling point (Celsius)
52.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
325.00
General information
Molecular weight
52.04g/mol
Molar mass
52.0360g/mol
Density
1.1100g/cm3
Appearence

Oxalonitrile, also known as dicyan, is a colorless liquid at room temperature. It is typically clear and exhibits a mild, ether-like odor. Due to its high volatility, it may be encountered as a vapor at slightly elevated temperatures. Its consistency and color can be compared to common organic solvents like acetone or ethanol.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Oxalonitrile

Oxalonitrile, also known as 2,2'-oxaldihydrazone, is noted for its unique solubility characteristics depending on the solvent employed. Understanding its solubility behavior is important for various applications in organic synthesis and chemical processes.

Solubility Features:

  • Polar Solvents: Oxalonitrile is generally soluble in polar solvents such as water, alcohols, and certain ethers.
  • Non-Polar Solvents: In contrast, it exhibits poor solubility in non-polar solvents, which limits its extraction and purification methods in organic chemistry.
  • Temperature Dependence: Its solubility can vary significantly with temperature, often increasing in higher temperature conditions, affecting its reactivity and stability.

In practical terms, when considering the dissolution of oxalonitrile, it is crucial to tailor the solvent choice based on the required concentration and reaction conditions. As one reference asserted, “A proper solvent can not only enhance solubility but also influence the kinetics of the reactions involving oxalonitrile.”

To summarize, oxalonitrile is primarily soluble in polar solvents while demonstrating limited solubility in non-polar solvents, which is essential for chemists to keep in mind during experimental design.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Oxalonitrile

Oxalonitrile, also known as 2-Cyanoguanidine, is a fascinating compound with a range of applications and significant interest in the field of chemistry. Here are some intriguing facts about this versatile compound:

  • Structure: Oxalonitrile features a unique structure characterized by a guanidine backbone, which contributes to its remarkable chemical reactivity.
  • Reactivity: It is known for its ability to undergo various chemical transformations, making it a valuable intermediate in organic synthesis. This characteristic allows for the creation of numerous derivatives.
  • Biological Activity: There is ongoing research surrounding the biological applications of oxalonitrile, particularly its potential as a pharmaceutical agent due to its guanidine moiety.
  • Environmental Impact: Studies have been conducted on the environmental fate of oxalonitrile, emphasizing the importance of understanding its behavior in ecological systems.
  • Applications: Oxalonitrile is utilized in the synthesis of various polymers and as a catalyst in several chemical reactions, showcasing its industrial significance.

With its intriguing properties and diverse applications, oxalonitrile not only piques the curiosity of chemists but also holds the potential for future technological innovations. As stated by a researcher, “The true magic of compounds like oxalonitrile lies in their reactivity and the variety of pathways they can open in chemical synthesis.

Continued exploration of oxalonitrile could lead to breakthroughs in both chemical research and industrial processes, making it a compound to watch in various scientific disciplines.

Synonyms
CYANOGEN
Oxalonitrile
Ethanedinitrile
Dicyan
Carbon nitride
Dicyanogen
Nitriloacetonitrile
Oxalyl cyanide
Oxalic acid dinitrile
Prussite
460-19-5
Cyanogene
Oxalic nitrile
Cyanogen (C2N2)
Carbon nitride (C2N2)
Cyanogene [French]
NCCN
RCRA waste number P031
(CN)2
Cyanogen gas
HSDB 2130
bis(nitridocarbon)(C--C)
EINECS 207-306-5
C2N2
534Q0F66RK
CYANOGEN [HSDB]
CYANOGEN [MI]
DTXSID1023992
CHEBI:29308
EC 207-306-5
CYANOGENE (FRENCH)
carbononitridic cyanide
UN1026
RCRA waste no. P031
UNII-534Q0F66RK
ethane dinitrile
CYANOGEN, GAS
Ethanedinitrile (9CI)
Cyanogen (ACGIH:OSHA)
CYANOGEN, LIQUEFIED
N C C N
DTXCID603992
Cyanogen [UN1026] [Poison gas]
UN 1026
bis(nitridocarbon)(C--C);ethanedinitrile
NS00043588
Q421724
207-306-5