Dinitromethane is a chemical compound with the molecular formula CH3N(NO2)2. Its spelling may seem complicated, but it can be broken down into its individual components: "di-" meaning two, "nitro-" referring to the nitro functional group (NO2), and "methane" which is a simple hydrocarbon. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be pronounced /daɪˌnaɪtroʊˈmɛθeɪn/. This highly reactive and explosive compound is commonly used in the production of explosives and rocket propellants.
Dinitromethane is a chemical compound with the formula CH3N(NO2)2. It is a liquid with a pale yellow color, characterized by its strong odor. This compound is classified as a nitroalkane due to the presence of two nitro groups (-NO2) attached to a methyl group (-CH3). It consists of a single carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms and two nitro groups.
Dinitromethane is primarily used as an intermediate in various chemical synthesis processes, including the production of pharmaceuticals, dyes, and other organic compounds. It is also employed as a high-energy fuel component in specialized applications. Due to its highly explosive nature, it is used with caution in manufacturing and research facilities.
In terms of its properties, dinitromethane is highly reactive and sensitive to heat, shock, and friction, which can potentially trigger its detonation. It has a relatively high density and low vapor pressure, making it stable at room temperature. However, it is important to store and handle dinitromethane with care, as it can cause severe harm if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
To summarize, dinitromethane is a liquid chemical compound with a characteristic odor, composed of a methyl group bonded to two nitro groups. It serves as an intermediate in chemical synthesis and is used as a high-energy fuel component. Safety precautions should be followed due to its explosive and toxic properties.
The word "dinitromethane" is a compound term made up of three parts: "di-", "nitro-", and "methane".
The prefix "di-" means two or double, usually indicating that there are two functional groups of the same kind in a molecule.
The term "nitro-" refers to the functional group -NO2, which consists of a nitrogen atom bonded to two oxygen atoms. The term "nitro-" is derived from the Greek word "nitron", meaning native soda, which was originally obtained from the reaction of nitric acid with naturally occurring minerals.
Finally, "methane" refers to the simple hydrocarbon compound CH4, which is the primary component of natural gas.