Pronunciation: [ˈasɪtˌə͡ʊn] (IPA) 
The word "acetone" is spelled with five letters, but the sounds that make up the word can be a bit tricky to grasp. The "a" is pronounced like "ae" and the "c" sounds like "s". The "e" is similar to a schwa sound, while the "t" is pronounced like "tuh". The "o" is pronounced like "oh" and the "n" sounds like "n". In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled as /ˈæsɪtoʊn/.
Acetone is a colorless, flammable liquid that belongs to the class of organic compounds called ketones. It is derived from the oxidation of isopropanol or by the destructive distillation of wood. Acetone has a distinctive sweet fruity odor and is highly volatile, evaporating easily at room temperature.
In terms of its chemical composition, acetone has the molecular formula (CH3)2CO. It consists of three carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom, forming a central carbon atom attached to two methyl groups (-CH3) and an oxygen atom. This arrangement gives acetone its characteristic properties and reactivity.
Acetone is a versatile solvent that is miscible with water and a wide range of organic solvents, making it widely used in various industries. It is commonly employed as a cleaning agent, solvent, and degreaser due to its ability to dissolve many substances quickly. Moreover, it is a crucial component in the production of numerous household and industrial products, including paints, varnishes, adhesives, plastics, synthetic fibers, and pharmaceuticals.
Apart from its industrial uses, acetone is also utilized in medical and cosmetic applications. It serves as a crucial ingredient in nail polish remover, as it effectively dissolves and removes nail polish. It is also utilized in some dermatological treatments and as a laboratory reagent.
However, acetone should be handled with care due to its flammable nature. It is important to mitigate any potential risks associated with its use and ensure proper ventilation in areas where it is stored or used.
1. A substance, CO. (CH3)2, found in the urine and blood in diabetes; it is the cause of the peculiar odor in that disease. 2. Acetonum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Pyro-acetic spirit.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "acetone" derives from the Latin word "acetum", which means "vinegar". The suffix "-one" is often used in chemistry to denote a ketone compound. Since acetone is the simplest ketone and is found naturally in vinegar, it was named after vinegar itself.
