The spelling of "o Chlorobenzylidenemalonitrile" may seem daunting at first glance, but it follows a logical pattern. The prefix "o" indicates that the two substituents on the benzene ring are located ortho (on adjacent carbon atoms). The IPA phonetic transcription would be əʊ ˌklɔːrəʊˈbɛnzɪlaɪdɛnˈmælənaɪtraɪl. This type of naming system is commonly used in organic chemistry to describe the structure of complex molecules, and knowing the phonetic transcription can be helpful for pronunciation.
o-Chlorobenzylidenemalonitrile is a chemical compound that can be classified as an organic salt. It is commonly used as a riot control agent and belongs to the chemical group of lacrimators, which are substances employed for their irritant effects on the eyes, respiratory system, and skin. This compound is known by its chemical formula C10H5ClN2 and its systematic name 2-chlorobenzylidene(benzylcyanide).
o-Chlorobenzylidenemalonitrile is widely utilized by law enforcement agencies and military forces for crowd control purposes due to its strong irritant properties. Upon exposure, it can induce immediate and severe health effects, including intense eye irritation, respiratory distress, and skin irritation or burning sensation. Its mechanism of action involves causing a chemical reaction with moisture in the eyes, leading to the release of irritating hydrochloric acid, which stimulates pain and inflammation.
This chemical compound is typically dispersed in the form of a fine powder or aerosol, enabling easy distribution, and its irritating effects can be felt even at minimal concentrations. Protective measures such as gas masks, goggles, and appropriate clothing are recommended when encountering o-chlorobenzylidenemalonitrile, as direct contact with the substance can result in significant discomfort and potential harm. It is important to note that the use of this compound in riot control is strictly regulated and subject to international conventions and national legislation due to the risks it poses to human health.
The word "o-Chlorobenzylidenemalonitrile" is a scientific chemical name, and its etymology can be broken down as follows:
1. "o-" is a prefix indicating the position of the chloro substituent on the benzene ring. In this case, "o-" stands for ortho, meaning the substituent is located at the 2-position on the ring.
2. "Chloro-" refers to the presence of a chlorine atom in the compound.
3. "Benzylidene" comes from the term "benzylidene" or "benzal" referring to a group derived from benzaldehyde. It indicates the presence of a carbon-carbon double bond =C in the structure, which connects the benzene ring and another group.