TRICHLOROBENZENE Meaning and
Definition
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Trichlorobenzene is a chemical compound that belongs to the family of halogenated hydrocarbons. Specifically, it is a benzene derivative in which three hydrogen atoms have been replaced by chlorine atoms. The compound is represented by the molecular formula C6H3Cl3.
Trichlorobenzene is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a distinctive aromatic odor. It is not readily soluble in water but is soluble in organic solvents such as benzene and ethanol. This compound is primarily used as a solvent or intermediate in various industrial processes, such as the production of dyes, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. It is also utilized as a heat transfer fluid and in the manufacturing of electrical equipment.
In terms of its chemical properties, trichlorobenzene exhibits moderate reactivity. It is stable under normal conditions and does not readily undergo spontaneous decomposition. However, it can react with various reactive substances under certain conditions, including strong oxidizing agents. It is important to handle trichlorobenzene with care due to its toxic nature and potential to cause harm to the environment. Exposure to trichlorobenzene can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, and it may lead to respiratory irritation, skin sensitization, and adverse effects on the liver and kidneys.
Overall, trichlorobenzene is a chlorinated organic compound used primarily as a solvent and intermediate in industrial applications. Its physical and chemical properties make it a valuable compound for various processes, but its toxicity necessitates careful handling and appropriate safety measures.
Etymology of TRICHLOROBENZENE
The word "trichlorobenzene" is derived from two parts: "tri-" which is a prefix indicating three, "chloro" which is a combining form of chlorine, and "benzene" which refers to a specific organic compound.
"Chlorine" originates from the Greek word "khloros" meaning "greenish-yellow". It was later adopted into Latin as "chloros" and then into English as "chlorine", referring to the greenish color of the gas.
"Benzene" is derived from the German word "Benzin", which was a component isolated from coal tar. It was named after Michael Faraday's contemporary, the chemist Friedrich August Kekulé von Stradonitz, who proposed its ring-like structure in 1865. The German name "Benzin" was anglicized to "benzene".
