Acenaphthylene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon compound with the molecular formula C12H8. The word is spelled as [ə-sin-af-thuh-leen] in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable "ace" is pronounced with a schwa sound. The "naph" is pronounced with the short "a" sound, like in "cat". The "thyl" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, as in "sit". The "ene" is pronounced with a long "e" sound, like in "bean". The correct spelling and pronunciation of scientific terms are essential for effective communication in fields like chemistry.
Acenaphthylene is a chemical compound that consists of a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) with a fused benzene and naphthalene ring structure. It is a colorless, crystalline solid that is primarily used in various industrial applications, such as in the production of dyes, pigments, and certain types of plastics.
In terms of its chemical properties, acenaphthylene has a molecular formula of C12H8 and a molecular weight of 152.19 grams per mole. It has a melting point of approximately 92 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of about 280 degrees Celsius. Its molecular structure consists of a flat planar arrangement, due to the aromaticity of its benzene ring.
Acenaphthylene is considered to be a highly stable compound due to its rigid and conjugated structure, which prevents it from easily reacting with other chemicals. It is also relatively insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as benzene, toluene, and ethanol. This compound is primarily manufactured through the distillation of coal tar or by synthesizing naphthalene.
In terms of its potential health hazards, acenaphthylene is considered to be a moderate carcinogen and mutagen. Exposure to this compound can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, which may lead to adverse health effects. Thus, appropriate safety precautions should be taken when handling acenaphthylene, and it should be stored and used in well-ventilated areas.
The word "acenaphthylene" is derived from the chemical compounds "acenaphthene" and "naphthalene".
The term "acenaphthene" originates from the combination of the Greek prefix "ace-" meaning "one" or "single" and the noun "naphthalene", a hydrocarbon compound with a distinct odor commonly found in coal tar. "Naphthalene" itself is derived from the Greek word "naphtha", meaning "bitumen" or "any volatile flammable substance".
So, the word "acenaphthylene" combines "acenaphthene" and "naphthalene" to refer to a compound that contains both these chemical structures.