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Picric acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H3N3O7
CAS number
88-89-1
IUPAC name
picric acid
State
State

At room temperature, picric acid is in a solid state. It is highly sensitive to shock, friction, and heat, which is why it needs careful handling. When in its pure form, it is especially hazardous and is typically stored dampened with water to reduce sensitivity to detonation.

Melting point (Celsius)
122.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
395.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
300.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
573.00
General information
Molecular weight
229.10g/mol
Molar mass
229.1010g/mol
Density
1.7630g/cm3
Appearence

Picric acid appears as a yellow crystalline solid. It is known for its bright yellow color and was historically used as a yellow dye. The crystals are usually needle-like and can be somewhat greasy in appearance due to the presence of moisture.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Picric Acid

Picric acid, known chemically as 2,4,6-trinitrophenol and with the formula C6H3N3O7, exhibits noteworthy solubility characteristics that are important in various applications.

Solubility Properties

When discussing the solubility of picric acid, consider the following key points:

  • Water Solubility: Picric acid is moderately soluble in water, with a solubility of approximately 0.1 g/100 mL at room temperature.
  • Solvent Versatility: It is readily soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and ether, making it useful in various chemical processes.
  • pH Dependency: The solubility can be influenced by the pH of the solution; it tends to dissolve better in acidic conditions.
  • Hydrophobic Character: Despite being a polar compound, the presence of nitro groups introduces hydrophobic characteristics, affecting its overall solubility profile.

In summary, the solubility of picric acid in different solvents, coupled with its reactivity under various conditions, illustrates the complexity and importance of understanding solubility in the context of chemical applications. As such, one must consider both the chemical properties and environmental factors when working with this compound.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Picric Acid

Picric acid, known chemically as 2,4,6-trinitrophenol, is a fascinating compound with a rich history and unique properties that intrigue scientists and students alike. Here are some notable facts about this interesting chemical:

  • Historical Significance: Originally synthesized in the 19th century, picric acid was used in the field of explosives and played a major role during both World Wars. It was among the first organic compounds to be used as an explosive, earning the nickname "the yellow explosive" due to its bright yellow crystalline appearance.

  • Uses Beyond Explosives: While its explosive properties are well-known, picric acid is also used in various areas, including:
    • As a dye in coloring textiles
    • In the synthesis of pharmaceuticals
    • In laboratory settings for histological studies

  • Health and Safety Considerations: Due to its explosive nature and toxic effects, picric acid must be handled with care. It can cause skin irritation, and it is essential to wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with it.

  • Reactivity: Picric acid is a strong acid and can form salts with various metals. It is especially known for forming picrate salts, which can also exhibit explosive properties, making it a compound that requires thorough knowledge and respect in handling.

  • Cultural Impact: Picric acid has been used in various cultural contexts, including literature and art, symbolizing danger and volatile beauty. Its vibrant color and explosive nature have made it a subject of fascination.

In conclusion, picric acid presents a complex blend of history, application, and necessity for cautious handling, making it an incredible subject of study for chemists and enthusiasts alike. As we explore its properties and implications, we unveil the layers of knowledge surrounding this remarkable compound.

Synonyms
PICRIC ACID
2,4,6-Trinitrophenol
Trinitrophenol
88-89-1
Carbazotic acid
Picronitric acid
Melinite
Acide picrique
Picral
Nitroxanthic acid
Phenol trinitrate
Pikrinezuur
Pikrinsaeure
Acido picrico
Pikrynowy kwas
Phenol, 2,4,6-trinitro-
Phenoltrinitrate
2-Hydroxy-1,3,5-trinitrobenzene
Picricum acidum
Kyselina pikrova
Acidum picrinicum
1,3,5-Trinitrophenol
2,4,6-Trinitrofenol
2,4,6-Trinitrofenolo
C.I. 10305
CCRIS 3106
2,4,6-Trinitrophenyl
HSDB 2040
CI 10305
EINECS 201-865-9
UNII-A49OS0F91S
NSC 36947
A49OS0F91S
CHEBI:46149
AI3-15403
NSC-36947
DTXSID4025909
Picric acid, dry
Picric acid, wet
2,6-Trinitrofenol
Pertite
Picric acid (dry)
Picric acid (wet)
1,5-Trinitrophenol
2,6-Trinitrofenolo
2,6-Trinitrophenol
Phenol,4,6-trinitro-
WLN: WNR BQ CNW ENW
TRINITROPHENOL (MART.)
TRINITROPHENOL [MART.]
2-Hydroxy-1,5-trinitrobenzene
Pikrinezuur [Dutch]
Pikrinsaeure [German]
Acide picrique [French]
Acido picrico [Italian]
Pikrynowy kwas [Polish]
Kyselina pikrova [Czech]
Trinitrophenol [NF]
2,4,6-TNP
2,4,6-Trinitrofenol [Dutch]
2,4,6-Trinitrofenolo [Italian]
NA1344
UN0154
UN1344
Reflorit
Acidum Picricum
Carbonitric acid
Hager's reagent
Nitrophenesic acid
1-hydroxy-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene
San Su
Picric acid, p.a.
Lyddite (Salt/Mix)
Ecrasite (Salt/Mix)
Schimose (Salt/Mix)
PICRIC ACID [MI]
PICRIC ACID [HSDB]
SCHEMBL8745
NA 1344 (Salt/Mix)
UN 1344 (Salt/Mix)
PICRIC ACID [WHO-DD]
PICRICUM ACIDUM [HPUS]
CHEMBL108541
DTXCID905909
Picric acid, dry or wetted with < 30% water, by mass
SCHEMBL14419782
BDBM34612
cid_3241713
Trinitrophenol, dry or wetted with < 30% water, by mass
NSC36947
NSC56147
NSC-56147
STL199171
AKOS008966816
DB03651
UN 0154
Picric acid, wet, with not <10% water
DB-057108
Picric acid, moistened with water, >=98%
NS00010581
Picric acid, SAJ special grade, >=99.5%
2-methylbenzo[g][1,3]benzoxazole;picric acid
Picric acid solution (1.3% in H2O, saturated)
A842990
Q189298
SR-01000944524
1-methyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-beta-carboline;picric acid
2,4,6-Trinitrophenol 10 microg/mL in Acetonitrile
SR-01000944524-1
2,4,6-Trinitrophenol 100 microg/mL in Acetonitrile
Trinitrophenol, wetted with not <30% water, by mass
2-methylbenzo[g][1,3]benzoxazole;2,4,6-trinitrophenol
Picric acid, wet, with not <10% water [NA1344] [Flammable solid]
Trinitrophenol or picric acid, dry or wetted with <30% water, by mass
Trinitrophenol, wetted with not <30% water, by mass [UN1344] [Flammable solid]
201-865-9
InChI=1/C6H3N3O7/c10-6-4(8(13)14)1-3(7(11)12)2-5(6)9(15)16/h1-2,10
Trinitrophenol or picric acid, dry or wetted with <30% water, by mass [UN0154] [Explosive 1.1D]