The common name for CH3CONH2 is Acetamide.
Understanding Acetamide: A Closer Look at CH3CONH2
Acetamide is an essential organic compound identified by its chemical formula CH3CONH2. It is the simplest amide derived from acetic acid, where the hydroxyl group (-OH) of acetic acid is replaced by an amino group (-NH2). This characteristic structure makes it a primary amide.
Key Characteristics and Properties
Acetamide exists as a colorless, deliquescent, crystalline solid at room temperature. Its unique structure and composition contribute to several important physical and chemical properties:
- Molecular Formula: CH3CONH2
- Molar Mass: 59.07 g/mol
- Appearance: White crystalline solid
- Odor: Mouse-like or faint amine odor when impure
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water, ethanol, chloroform, and benzene.
- Melting Point: Approximately 80-82 °C
- Boiling Point: Approximately 221 °C
Structural Insight
The structure of Acetamide features a carbonyl group (C=O) directly bonded to a methyl group (CH3) and an amino group (NH2). This functional group, -CONH2, is characteristic of amides. The presence of the nitrogen atom with a lone pair and the electronegative oxygen in the carbonyl group makes acetamide capable of forming hydrogen bonds, contributing to its relatively high melting and boiling points and good solubility in polar solvents.
Common Applications and Uses
Acetamide finds a variety of applications across different industries due to its versatility. Some of its notable uses include:
- Industrial Solvent: It serves as a good solvent for many organic and inorganic compounds.
- Plasticizer: Incorporated into plastics to increase their flexibility and workability.
- Intermediate in Chemical Synthesis: Used as a precursor for the production of other organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals, dyes, and other amides.
- Stabilizer: Can act as a stabilizer in certain formulations.
- Laboratory Reagent: Employed in various laboratory procedures, particularly in organic synthesis.
- Fungicide: In some applications, it is used as a fungicide.
Summary of Key Information
To further clarify, here's a brief overview of Acetamide:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Acetamide |
| Chemical Name | Ethanamide |
| Formula | CH3CONH2 |
| Class | Primary Amide |
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Key Uses | Solvent, Plasticizer, Chemical Intermediate |
For more detailed information on Acetamide's chemical properties and safety data, you can refer to resources like PubChem, a public database of chemical compounds, which provides comprehensive scientific information.
