TETRATHIAFULVALENE Meaning and
Definition
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Tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) is a chemical compound that consists of a fused aromatic ring system with four sulfur atoms and alternating double and single bonds. It is known for its remarkable electronic and conducting properties, which have led to its widespread use in various fields of chemistry and physics.
TTF is a yellow crystalline solid that is insoluble in water but dissolves readily in organic solvents. It is often synthesized using a combination of chemical reactions, including the condensation of carbon disulfide with appropriate reagents. TTF exhibits a planar, cyclic structure that allows for effective delocalization of electrons, leading to its unique conductive properties.
The compound gained significant attention due to its ability to undergo reversible oxidation and reduction reactions. When TTF has an oxidation state of +1 (TTF+), it becomes a radical cation and can carry an electrical charge, making it a valuable component of organic conductors and semiconductors. TTF-based materials have been extensively studied for their potential applications in batteries, molecular electronics, and sensors.
Additionally, TTF is a crucial building block in the synthesis of other organic compounds. By modifying the functional groups on TTF, chemists can create derivatives with different electronic and structural properties, broadening the range of applications for this compound.
Overall, tetrathiafulvalene is a versatile compound with unique electronic properties, making it a valuable tool in the fields of materials science, organic chemistry, and electronics.
Etymology of TETRATHIAFULVALENE
The word "tetrathiafulvalene" is derived from its chemical structure and the combination of different elements. Here is the breakdown:
"Tetra-" is a Greek prefix meaning "four", indicating that the compound consists of four main parts.
"Thia-" is derived from "thio", a prefix indicating sulfur, as the compound contains sulfur atoms.
"Fulvalene" is a portmanteau combining "fulvene" and "valence". "Fulvene" refers to the class of compounds that have a five-membered ring with alternating single and double bonds, which is the main structural feature of tetrathiafulvalene. "Valence" refers to the ability of an element to form chemical bonds.
Therefore, "tetrathiafulvalene" indicates a compound consisting of four units of thia, which is sulfur-based, attached to a fulvene-like structure.
