PHENACYL CHLORIDE Meaning and
Definition
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Phenacyl chloride is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C9H9ClO. It belongs to the family of organic compounds known as acetophenones, which are aromatic ketones with a phenyl group attached to the carbonyl carbon. Phenacyl chloride is a colorless to light yellow liquid that has a pungent odor. It is primarily used as a chemical reagent in a variety of organic synthesis reactions.
Phenacyl chloride is widely recognized for its use in self-defense sprays due to its strong irritant properties. When sprayed on an individual, it causes severe irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, leading to temporary incapacitation. It acts as a sensory irritant by stimulating pain receptors, causing tearing, burning, and respiratory distress.
In addition to its use in self-defense sprays, phenacyl chloride is employed in organic chemistry as a reagent for the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and dyes. It reacts with alcohols to form esters, with amines to produce amides, and with thiols to yield thioesters. Its ability to undergo these reactions makes it a versatile compound for the modification and synthesis of diverse organic molecules.
Overall, phenacyl chloride is a versatile and widely used organic compound with applications in the field of self-defense, as well as in various organic synthesis processes.
Etymology of PHENACYL CHLORIDE
The word "phenacyl" is derived from "phenyl" and "acetyl". "Phenyl" pertains to a type of organic compound derived from benzene that contains a ring of six carbon atoms with alternating single and double bonds. "Acetyl" refers to the acyl group derived from acetic acid, which consists of two carbon atoms, three hydrogen atoms, and an oxygen atom.
The term "chloride" simply refers to a compound that includes chlorine. Therefore, "phenacyl chloride" consists of the combination of the phenyl and acetyl groups with a chlorine atom, resulting in a compound commonly used in organic chemistry reactions.
