Actetamide formula is also known as Acetic acid amide, Ethanamide or Acetimidic acid. It is derived from acetic acid and is widely used as a plasticizer.
A hygroscopic solid with a mousy odor, ethanamide, is obtained as a hygroscopic solid. The compound is readily soluble in water, chloroform, hot benzene, glycerol, and ether but is only slightly soluble in ether. The compound is formed when acetic acid (CH3COOH) is condensed with ammonia (NH3). It is naturally found in red beetroot.
Structure of Acetamide -CH3CONH2
The acetamide molecule has a molar mass of 56.07g/mol and has a chemical formula C2H5NO or CH3CONH2. Acetamide has a methyl group attached to two carbonyl groups (CO) and two amine groups (NH2). In addition to having the typical carboxylic acid amide functional group of RC(=O)NH2, acetamide is a member of the primary carboxylic acid amide family. As a natural chemical, it is also present in nature.
Also Read – Aluminium Nitrate Formula
Properties of Acetamide –CH3CONH2
| C2H5NO | Acetamide |
| Molecular weight/molar mass of C2H5NO | 59.068 g/mol |
| Density of Acetamide | 1.159 g/cm3 |
| Boiling Point of Acetamide | 221.2 °C |
| Melting Point of Acetamide | 79 to 81 °C |
Production of Acetamide-CH3CONH2
It can be produced in chemical laboratories by dehydrating ammonium acetate.
[NH4][CH3CO2] → CH3C(O)NH2 + H2O
The compound can also be obtained by ammonolysis of acetylacetone under the same conditions as reductive amination. In addition, anhydrous acetic acid (CH3COOH), dried hydrogen chloride gas, and acetonitrile can be prepared in an ice bath along with acetyl chloride as a reagent. Dehydrating ammonium acetate or hydrolyzing acetonitrile can be used to produce it on an industrial scale.
CH3CN + H2O → CH3C(O)NH2
Also Check – Bond Order Formula
Uses of Acetamide-CH3CONH2
- Many inorganic and organic compounds are soluble in acetamide.
- Explosives use this compound.
- Used as Plasticizer.
- A hygroscopic agent.
- Methylamine is manufactured with this chemical.
- Used as a Stabilizer.
- Used as a penetrating agent.
- Used as a Fire suppressant.
Also Check – Molar Volume Formula
Health Hazards of Acetamide- CH3CONH2
- Acetic acid amide is combustible and releases toxic fumes when heated.
- It can irritate mucous membranes, skin, and eyes. It can also damage corneas.
Acetamide Formula FAQs
What is acetamide, and where is it commonly found?
Acetamide is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH3CONH2. It is primarily used in the chemical industry as a precursor for various chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
Is acetamide a natural compound found in organisms?
Acetamide is not commonly found in nature and is typically synthesized through chemical processes. However, some microorganisms can produce it as a metabolic byproduct under specific conditions.
Is acetamide safe for human consumption or use in personal care products?
Acetamide is not approved for use in food products or personal care items. It is primarily an industrial chemical and should not be ingested or applied to the skin without proper safety precautions.
What are the potential health risks associated with acetamide exposure?
Exposure to acetamide may irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Prolonged or high-level exposure can be harmful, and it is essential to follow safety guidelines and use protective equipment when handling this chemical.
What are the industrial applications of acetamide?
Acetamide serves as a building block in synthesizing various chemicals and pharmaceuticals, including pesticides, herbicides, and pharmaceutical drugs. It is used as a starting material for producing more complex organic compounds in the chemical industry.