METAXYLENE Meaning and
Definition
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Metaxylene is a chemical compound that falls under the category of aromatic hydrocarbons. It is specifically classified as a xylene isomer, which means it shares the same molecular formula as other xylenes (C8H10) but has a different arrangement of atoms.
Metaxylene derives its name from its molecular structure, which contains a methyl group (-CH3) attached to the benzene ring at the meta position. This means that the methyl group is positioned at the third carbon atom of the benzene ring, counting from any one substituent or functional group already attached. This arrangement distinguishes metaxylene from its isomers orthoxylene and paraxylene, where the methyl group is attached at the ortho and para positions, respectively.
Metaxylene is a colorless, flammable liquid with a characteristic sweet odor. It is primarily used as a solvent in industrial processes, including the production of paints, varnishes, and synthetic textiles. It also serves as an intermediate in the manufacturing of various chemicals, such as pesticides, dyes, and pharmaceuticals.
Due to its toxicity, metaxylene should be handled with caution, as inhalation or prolonged exposure can cause irritation to the respiratory system, eyes, and skin. In terms of environmental impact, metaxylene is persistent in the air and can contribute to air pollution when released into the atmosphere.
Overall, metaxylene is an important compound in the field of chemistry and industry, with its distinct structure and properties making it valuable for a range of applications.
Common Misspellings for METAXYLENE
- netaxylene
- ketaxylene
- jetaxylene
- mwtaxylene
- mstaxylene
- mdtaxylene
- mrtaxylene
- m4taxylene
- m3taxylene
- meraxylene
- mefaxylene
- megaxylene
- meyaxylene
- me6axylene
- me5axylene
- metzxylene
- metsxylene
- metwxylene
- metqxylene
- metazylene
Etymology of METAXYLENE
The word "Metaxylene" is derived from two components: "meta" and "xylene".
The prefix "meta" comes from the Greek word "metá", meaning "after" or "beyond". In the context of organic chemistry, "meta" refers to the positioning of substituents in the meta position on a benzene ring.
"Xylene" is a hydrocarbon compound belonging to the aromatic family. It is commonly derived from coal tar or petroleum and exists in various isomeric forms, including ortho-xylene, meta-xylene, and para-xylene. These isomers differ in the positions of the methyl groups around the benzene ring.
So, "Metaxylene" specifically refers to the isomer of xylene where the two methyl groups are present in the meta position on the benzene ring.
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