Chlorocarbon
Chlorocarbon
Chlorocarbon (pronunciation: klor-oh-kahr-buhn), also known as organochloride or organochlorine compound, is a compound containing at least one carbon atom and one chlorine atom in the molecule. The term chlorocarbon is used to denote any organic compound that contains a covalently bonded chlorine atom.
Etymology
The term "chlorocarbon" is derived from the elements that make up the compound: "chloro-" from the Greek word "chloros" meaning greenish-yellow, referring to the color of chlorine, and "-carbon" referring to the element carbon.
Types of Chlorocarbons
There are several types of chlorocarbons, including:
- Aliphatic chlorocarbons: These are chlorocarbons where the chlorine atom is bonded to a carbon atom in an aliphatic chain. Examples include methylene chloride and vinyl chloride.
- Aromatic chlorocarbons: These are chlorocarbons where the chlorine atom is bonded to a carbon atom in an aromatic ring. Examples include chlorobenzene and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
- Cyclic chlorocarbons: These are chlorocarbons where the chlorine atom is bonded to a carbon atom in a cyclic structure. Examples include hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH).
Uses
Chlorocarbons are used in a wide range of applications, including as solvents, refrigerants, and in the production of plastics and pharmaceuticals. Some chlorocarbons, such as dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), have been used as pesticides, but their use is now restricted due to their environmental impact.
Health Effects
Exposure to certain chlorocarbons can have harmful health effects. For example, exposure to carbon tetrachloride can cause liver, kidney, and lung damage, while exposure to vinyl chloride can increase the risk of developing liver, lung, and blood cancers.
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