Nitroacetanilide
Nitroacetanilide is an organic compound that is used in various chemical reactions, particularly in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals. It is a derivative of aniline, a primary amine, and is characterized by the presence of a nitro group (-NO2) and an acetanilide group (C6H5NHCOCH3) in its molecular structure.
Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]
Nitroacetanilide is a white crystalline solid at room temperature. Its molecular formula is C8H8N2O3, and its molar mass is 180.16 g/mol. The compound is slightly soluble in water, but it dissolves readily in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone.
The structure of nitroacetanilide consists of a benzene ring, to which an acetamide group (-NHCOCH3) and a nitro group (-NO2) are attached. The acetamide group is derived from acetic acid, while the nitro group is a common functional group in organic chemistry that contributes to the compound's reactivity.
Synthesis[edit | edit source]
Nitroacetanilide can be synthesized from acetanilide through a process known as nitration. This involves the reaction of acetanilide with a mixture of concentrated sulfuric acid and nitric acid. The reaction proceeds via an electrophilic aromatic substitution mechanism, in which the nitro group replaces a hydrogen atom on the benzene ring.
Applications[edit | edit source]
Due to its reactivity, nitroacetanilide is used as a starting material in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds. For example, it can be reduced to aminoacetanilide, which is a key intermediate in the production of certain analgesics and antipyretics.
Safety[edit | edit source]
Like many nitro compounds, nitroacetanilide can be hazardous. It is important to handle it with care, using appropriate personal protective equipment. It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from sources of ignition.
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD