Tetranitromethane is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C2N4O8. Its pronunciation is /ˌtɛtrənaɪtrɵˈmiːθeɪn/. The spelling of this word can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. "Tetra" means four, "nitro" refers to the nitro group, and "methane" is a hydrocarbon compound. The four nitro groups on the molecule are represented by the prefix "tetra". The pronunciation includes stress on the second syllable of "nitro" and the last syllable of "methane". Overall, this compound is highly explosive and highly toxic.
Tetranitromethane is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C(NO2)4. It is a highly explosive and toxic material that exists as a yellow crystalline solid.
Tetranitromethane is primarily used as a powerful nitrating agent in organic synthesis. Its main application is in the production of explosives, where it is used as an oxidizer and a source of nitrogen. Due to its explosive nature, it must be handled with extreme caution and expertise.
The compound is formed by the nitration of methylene chloride with concentrated nitric acid, followed by careful purification. Tetranitromethane has a strong odor and can cause severe irritation to the respiratory system and skin upon exposure. It reacts violently with combustible materials, reducing the flammability limits of many substances.
In addition to its uses as an explosive, tetranitromethane is also employed in laboratory settings as a reagent for the oxidation of organic compounds. It can be used as a powerful oxidizing agent in various chemical reactions.
It is important to note that tetranitromethane should be handled only by trained professionals in appropriate laboratory conditions due to its hazardous properties. Strict safety precautions, including the use of protective equipment and proper ventilation, are necessary when working with this compound to prevent accidents and exposure to its toxic fumes.
The word "Tetranitromethane" has a straightforward etymology based on its chemical composition. It consists of two components: "tetra-" and "nitromethane".
1. "Tetra-" is a Greek prefix meaning "four". It indicates the presence of four nitro groups in the compound.
2. "Nitromethane" is derived from the combination of "nitro-" and "methane".
- "Nitro-" refers to the nitro functional group (NO2), which consists of one nitrogen atom bonded to two oxygen atoms.
- "Methane" refers to a basic hydrocarbon compound with one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms.
Putting it together, "Tetranitromethane" describes a compound composed of four nitro groups attached to a methane molecule, resulting in the chemical formula CH2(NO2)4.