Acetyl Chloride: Understanding its IUPAC Name and Properties

Acetyl Chloride: A Derivative of Acetic Acid

The IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) name for the chemical compound CH3COCl is acetyl chloride. This name is derived from the molecular structure of the compound, which is a derivative of acetic acid (CH3COOH) with the -OH hydroxyl group replaced by a chlorine (-Cl) atom.

Acetyl chloride, also known as ethanoyl chloride, is a member of the acyl halides family, where the alkyl group on the acyl group is replaced by a halogen. This class of compounds is known for their reactivity and various applications in organic synthesis.

Chemical Identity and Structure

The chemical formula for acetyl chloride is CH3COCl, reflecting its structure with a two-carbon main chain and a chlorine atom replacing the -OH group of acetic acid. The "oyl halide" suffix in its IUPAC name is derived from the parent functional group (the acyl group) and the halide (-Cl) substituent.

Acetyl chloride is a colorless, corrosive, and volatile liquid. Its volatility and reactivity make it an important reagent in organic chemistry, particularly in acetylation reactions. While the IUPAC name is officially recognized, it is also commonly referred to as acety chloride.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Acetyl chloride is known for its corrosive nature and the need for appropriate handling measures. It is soluble in organic solvents and reacts readily with alcohols and phenols to form acetates. These properties make it a prime reagent in various chemical syntheses and transformations.

Its molecular structure and chemical identity can be summarized as follows:

Formula: CH3COCl Class: Acyl halides Functional Group: Acid halide SMILES: OC(C)Cl

Applications and Uses

Acetyl chloride finds extensive use in synthetic organic chemistry. It is primarily used in acetylation reactions to introduce an acetyl group (CH3CO-). This group can be attached to a variety of functional groups, including alcohols, phenols, and amines, to form their corresponding acetates.

Acetylation is a critical process in the production of plastics, pharmaceuticals, and other organic compounds. It is also used in the food industry for flavoring agents and to improve the stability and texture of food products.

Conclusion

Acetyl chloride, also known as ethanoyl chloride, is an important organic compound with a well-established IUPAC name. Its role as an acyl halide makes it a versatile reagent in organic chemistry, used extensively in acetylation reactions. Understanding its properties, applications, and names is crucial for chemists working in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, plastics, and food science.