Acetonitrile meaning

Acetonitrile is a solvent commonly used in organic chemistry and chromatography.


Acetonitrile definitions

Word backwards elirtinoteca
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division ac-e-to-ni-trile
Plural The plural form of acetonitrile is acetonitriles.
Total letters 12
Vogais (4) a,e,o,i
Consonants (5) c,t,n,r,l

Acetonitrile, also known as methyl cyanide, is a colorless liquid with a sweet, ether-like smell. It is a widely used solvent in organic synthesis and chromatography due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of compounds. Acetonitrile is a polar, aprotic solvent, meaning it does not donate hydrogen atoms during chemical reactions.

Uses of Acetonitrile

Acetonitrile is commonly used as a solvent in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, coatings, and electronics. It is also used in the production of fibers, plastics, and pesticides. In the pharmaceutical industry, acetonitrile is used in the synthesis of vitamin B1 and cortisone. Additionally, it is used in liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) for separating and analyzing compounds.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Acetonitrile has a molecular formula of C2H3N and a molecular weight of 41.05 g/mol. It has a boiling point of 81.6°C and a melting point of -45.7°C. Acetonitrile is miscible with water, alcohols, and ethers, making it a versatile solvent in various chemical reactions. It is relatively stable and does not react with most compounds under normal conditions.

Safety Considerations

Acetonitrile is a toxic compound that can be harmful if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. It can cause irritation to the respiratory tract, skin, and eyes. Prolonged exposure to acetonitrile can lead to central nervous system depression and other health issues. It is essential to handle acetonitrile with care, wear appropriate protective equipment, and follow safety guidelines when working with this solvent.

In conclusion, acetonitrile is a versatile solvent with various industrial applications. However, it is crucial to use this compound safely and handle it with caution due to its toxic nature. Understanding the properties and uses of acetonitrile is essential for ensuring the health and safety of individuals working with this solvent.


Acetonitrile Examples

  1. Acetonitrile is commonly used as a solvent in various chemical reactions.
  2. The purity of acetonitrile is crucial in chromatography applications.
  3. Researchers use acetonitrile for protein precipitation in biological samples.
  4. Acetonitrile is a key component in lithium-ion battery electrolytes.
  5. Pharmaceutical companies utilize acetonitrile for drug synthesis.
  6. Acetonitrile is used as an extraction solvent in forensic toxicology.
  7. Industrial processes often involve acetonitrile for cleaning applications.
  8. Acetonitrile is added to mobile phases in HPLC for improved separation.
  9. Organic chemists prefer acetonitrile as a reaction medium due to its compatibility with many compounds.
  10. Acetonitrile is commonly found in laboratories as a versatile solvent.


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  • Updated 28/03/2024 - 23:33:16