CARBONYL FLUORIDE Meaning and
Definition
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Carbonyl fluoride is a chemical compound with the formula COF2. It is a colorless gas that consists of one carbon atom, one oxygen atom, and two fluorine atoms, arranged in a linear structure. The molecule has a trigonal planar geometry with a carbon-oxygen double bond.
Carbonyl fluoride is primarily used as a raw material and intermediate in the production of various fluorinated compounds, including refrigerants, propellants, and polymers. It is also employed as a solvent for certain organic reactions. Due to its ability to undergo reactions such as hydrolysis and decomposition when exposed to water or heat, carbonyl fluoride is handled with caution.
In terms of its physical properties, carbonyl fluoride has a vapor pressure of around 470 mmHg at 20°C and a boiling point of -81.3°C. Additionally, it is considered to be non-flammable and is slightly soluble in water.
Carbonyl fluoride can pose health risks if inhaled, as it is a potent irritant to the respiratory system. Prolonged exposure or high concentrations of carbonyl fluoride can cause severe pulmonary damage and may be fatal. Therefore, proper protective measures, such as the use of respiratory equipment, should be ensured when handling this compound.
In summary, carbonyl fluoride is a colorless gas used as an intermediate in the production of various fluorinated compounds. It has a linear structure, is slightly soluble in water, and must be handled with caution due to its potential health hazards.
Etymology of CARBONYL FLUORIDE
The word "carbonyl fluoride" is derived from the combination of two terms: "carbonyl" and "fluoride".
"Carbonyl" refers to a chemical group consisting of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom (C=O). It is derived from the word "carbonyl", which comes from the Latin word "carbo" meaning "carbon" and the suffix "-yle" meaning "chemical compound".
"Fluoride" refers to a chemical compound that contains the element fluorine (F). The term is derived from the word "fluor", which is the Latin word for "flow" or "flux" due to fluorine's ability to enhance fluxes in metal refining processes. The suffix "-ide" indicates the presence of a negative ion formed by the element fluorine.
