How Do You Spell TRIETHYLALUMINIUM?

Pronunciation: [tɹˌa͡ɪθɪlˌaluːmˈɪni͡əm] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "triethylaluminium" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable "tri" is pronounced as /traɪ/, which rhymes with "eye". The second syllable "ethyl" is pronounced as /ˈɛθɪl/, with the "th" sound similar to "thin". The final part "aluminium" is pronounced as /ˌæljʊˈmɪniəm/, with the stress on the second syllable and a slight variation in the pronunciation of the final "i" sound depending on regional accents. This chemical compound is commonly used in the production of plastics and synthetic rubber.

TRIETHYLALUMINIUM Meaning and Definition

1. Triethylaluminium is a chemical compound consisting of three ethyl groups (C2H5) attached to an aluminium atom. It is commonly represented by the chemical formula Al(C2H5)3. This compound is classified as an organoaluminium compound because it contains aluminium and carbon atoms bonded together.

   Triethylaluminium is a highly reactive and flammable liquid at room temperature. It is colorless and possesses a pungent odor. It is soluble in many organic solvents such as hydrocarbons, ethers, and aromatic compounds. This compound is primarily used as a reagent in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of plastics, rubbers, and polymers. It is often employed in the Ziegler-Natta process for polymerization reactions.

   The unique reactivity of triethylaluminium lies in its ability to donate an alkyl group to other compounds, making it a versatile compound for many organic reactions. Its reactivity with water or air is particularly hazardous, leading to the release of flammable hydrogen gas. Therefore, it must be handled with extreme caution and in controlled environments.

   Triethylaluminium is also employed in the production of catalysts for the petrochemical industry and as a component in rocket propellants due to its high heat of combustion. Despite its importance in various industries, the handling and transportation of triethylaluminium require specialized safety precautions to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of workers and the environment.

Etymology of TRIETHYLALUMINIUM

The word "triethylaluminium" can be broken down into three main parts: "triethyl" and "aluminium".

1. "Triethyl" derives from the prefix "tri-" meaning "three" and "ethyl", which refers to "the monovalent radical C2H5 derived from ethane by removal of one hydrogen atom".

2. "Aluminium" refers to the chemical element aluminum, which is a metal commonly used in various industries.

Combining these parts, "triethylaluminium" describes a compound that consists of three ethyl groups attached to an aluminum atom.