Chemical Properties
2-bromopentane is a colorless to yellow-colored liquid with a strong odor. It is an optically active compound because it contains an asymmetric carbon (chiral carbon). An asymmetric carbon is carbon atom that is attached to four different types of atoms or groups of atoms. In 2-Bromopentance, the central carbon atom is attached to four different types of atoms (CH2, CH3, Br, H), hence it is an optically active compound.
Uses
Used as a chemical intermediate.
General Description
A colorless to yellow-colored liquid with a strong odor. Flash point 90°F. Slightly denser than water and insoluble in water. Vapors heavier than air. May irritate skin and eyes. In high concentrations the vapors may be narcotic.
Air & Water Reactions
Highly flammable. Insoluble in water.
Reactivity Profile
2-Bromopentane is incompatible with strong oxidizing and reducing agents. Also incompatible with many amines, nitrides, azo/diazo compounds, alkali metals, and epoxides.
Health Hazard
Irritating to eyes, nose, throat, and upper respiratory tract. Causes skin irritation.
Safety Profile
Poison by
intraperitoneal route. Mildly toxic by
inhalation. A local irritant and narcotic in
high concentration. Ingestion can cause liver
damage. A dangerous fire hazard when
exposed to heat or flame. When heated to
decomposition it emits toxic fumes of Br-.
See also BROMIDES and
CHLORINATED HYDROCARBONS,
ALIPHATIC.
Purification Methods
Dry it over K2CO3 and distil it through a short Vigreux column (p 11). [IR: Pines et al. J Am Chem Soc 74 4063 1952, Brown & Wheeler J Am Chem Soc 78 2199 1956, Beilstein 1 IV 312.]
