The word "oxalyl" is spelled /ɒkˈsælɪl/, with the stress on the second syllable. It is a chemical term referring to the oxalyl group, which is a functional group in organic chemistry. The spelling of the word is based on its Latin root, "oxalis," meaning "sour." The addition of the "-yl" suffix indicates that the group is a substituent in a larger molecule. Accurate spelling of this word is important for students and professionals studying organic chemistry.
Oxalyl is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C2O2(CO). It is an organic dioxalyl derivative that consists of two carbon atoms connected by a double bond and each bonded with an oxygen atom. The compound belongs to the oxalic acid family and is derived from oxalic acid by the replacement of one hydroxyl group with a carbonyl group. Oxalyl is a highly reactive and unstable compound, typically found as a solid with a white crystalline appearance.
Oxalyl has various applications in organic synthesis, serving as a versatile reagent in a wide range of chemical reactions. It is commonly used as a reagent for the conversion of alcohols into carbonyl compounds, such as aldehydes and ketones. Oxalyl is also utilized for the synthesis of other important organic compounds, including esters, amides, and nitriles. Furthermore, it can take part in reactions such as dehydration, decarboxylation, and complex formation.
Due to its reactivity, handling oxalyl requires caution, as it can react violently with water, acids, and strong oxidizing agents. It is also sensitive to heat, light, and shock, making it necessary to store and handle it in a controlled and protected environment.
The word "oxalyl" comes from the combination of the chemical compounds "oxalic acid" and "acyl". "Oxalic acid" is derived from the Latin word "oxalis", meaning "sorrel" (a type of plant that contains oxalic acid). "Acyl" comes from the term "acyl radical", which refers to a chemical group consisting of a carbon atom attached to an oxygen atom and a double bond to another oxygen atom. Therefore, the term "oxalyl" represents the combination of these two elements, indicating a compound derived from oxalic acid with the acyl radical.