The word "methylurethane" is pronounced /ˌmɛθɪlˈjʊərɪθeɪn/ in IPA phonetic transcription. Its spelling follows the common English spelling conventions. "Methyl" is a prefix indicating a group of compounds that have a methyl group (-CH3) attached. "Urethane" is a compound made up of a carbamate group (-NHCOO-) and a hydrocarbon group. Together, "methylurethane" refers to a specific chemical compound with these characteristics. Although it may seem like a complex word to spell, its components can be broken down to aid in memorizing its spelling.
Methylurethane, also known as ethylmethylcarbamate, is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C4H9NO2. It is an ester derived from carbamic acid and exhibits a structure in which a carbamate group is attached to an ethyl and methyl group.
In terms of its physical properties, methylurethane is a clear, colorless liquid that is practically odorless. It has a relatively low boiling point and is slightly soluble in water, making it a versatile compound that can be easily manipulated in various chemical reactions and industrial processes.
The main applications of methylurethane lie within the pharmaceutical and agricultural industries. It is commonly used as an intermediate compound for the synthesis of organic chemicals, particularly in the production of pharmaceutical drugs such as chlordiazepoxide and chlorphenesin carbamate. Additionally, methylurethane is utilized as an insecticide and herbicide in agriculture, as it possesses pesticidal properties that aid in controlling pests and unwanted vegetation.
From a safety perspective, it is important to handle methylurethane with caution. Although it is not highly toxic, exposure to large quantities may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Therefore, appropriate protective measures should be taken when working with this compound.
In summary, methylurethane is a chemical compound with diverse applications in the pharmaceutical and agricultural sectors. It acts as an intermediate for the synthesis of organic chemicals and is also utilized in pest and weed control. However, it should be used responsibly and with proper safety measures in place to avoid any potential health hazards.
Urethylane.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "methylurethane" is derived from the combination of two components: "methyl" and "urethane".
- "Methyl" comes from the Greek word "methy", which means "wine" or "alcohol". In chemistry, "methyl" refers to a chemical group consisting of a carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms (CH₃-). It is commonly used as a prefix to describe compounds containing this methyl group.
- "Urethane" originates from the German chemist Friedrich Wöhler, who first synthesized the compound in 1838. It is composed of two parts: "ureth", derived from the Greek word "ouron", meaning "urine", and "ane", a suffix denoting hydrocarbons or compounds composed solely of carbon and hydrogen. Thus, "urethane" refers to a compound derived from urine.