"A Comprehensive Guide to N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide: Structure, Properties, and Applications"N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide is an important organic compound with wide-ranging applications in various industries. This topic delves into the structure, properties, synthesis, and uses of N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide, providing a clear and concise overview for readers interested in organic chemistry and its practical applications.
What is N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide?
N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide, often abbreviated as NEBSA, belongs to the sulphonamide family of compounds. These are organic derivatives of sulfonic acid in which a sulphonamide group (-SO₂NH-) is attached to an aromatic benzene ring. In this particular compound, an ethyl group (-CH₂CH₃) is also attached to the nitrogen atom, making it a substituted sulphonamide.
Molecular Formula and Structure
The molecular formula of N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide is C₈H₁₁NO₂S. Its structure consists of:
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A benzene ring (C₆H₆) as the core aromatic group.
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A sulphonamide group (-SO₂NH-) attached to the benzene ring.
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An ethyl group (-CH₂CH₃) attached to the nitrogen atom.
This combination gives the compound its unique chemical and physical properties.
Physical and Chemical Properties
1. Appearance
N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide typically appears as a white or off-white crystalline solid, making it easy to identify in its pure form.
2. Solubility
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Soluble in polar solvents such as water, ethanol, and acetone.
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Insoluble in non-polar solvents like hexane and toluene.
3. Melting Point
The melting point of N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide ranges from 90°C to 100°C, depending on the purity and synthesis method.
4. Stability
It is stable under standard conditions but may decompose at higher temperatures or in the presence of strong acids or bases.
5. Reactivity
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Reacts with strong oxidizing agents.
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Can undergo hydrolysis under acidic or basic conditions.
Synthesis of N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide
The synthesis of N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide typically involves the reaction of benzene sulphonyl chloride with ethylamine. The process can be summarized in the following steps:
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Preparation of Benzene Sulphonyl Chloride
Benzene reacts with chlorosulfonic acid (ClSO₃H) to produce benzene sulphonyl chloride. -
Reaction with Ethylamine
Benzene sulphonyl chloride reacts with ethylamine (C₂H₅NH₂) in the presence of a base like sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to form N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide. -
Purification
The crude product is purified through recrystallization or distillation to obtain a high-purity form of the compound.
The overall reaction can be represented as:
C₆H₅SO₂Cl + C₂H₅NH₂ → C₆H₅SO₂NHC₂H₅ + HCl
Applications of N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide
N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide has a wide range of applications across different fields due to its versatile properties.
1. Plasticizer in Polymers
One of the most common uses of N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide is as a plasticizer. It is added to polymers like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to improve flexibility, durability, and processing characteristics.
2. Intermediate in Chemical Synthesis
The compound serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of other organic molecules. Its reactive sulphonamide group makes it a valuable precursor in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals.
3. Solvent in Industrial Applications
Due to its solubility in polar solvents, N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide is occasionally used as a solvent or co-solvent in chemical processes.
4. Additive in Lubricants
The compound is sometimes used as an additive in lubricants to enhance performance under extreme pressure or temperature conditions.
5. Pharmaceutical Applications
Sulphonamides, including N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide, are studied for their potential antimicrobial and therapeutic properties. While not a drug itself, it serves as a building block for medicinal chemistry research.
Safety and Handling
1. Toxicity
While N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide is generally considered to have low toxicity, prolonged exposure can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, or respiratory system. Handling should always involve protective gear, including gloves and safety goggles.
2. Storage
The compound should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Containers must be tightly sealed to prevent contamination.
3. Disposal
Waste materials containing N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide must be disposed of according to local environmental regulations. Avoid releasing it into water sources or the environment.
Comparison with Other Sulphonamides
N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide is one of many sulphonamides, and its properties vary slightly compared to others based on the substituents attached to the nitrogen or benzene ring. For example:
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N-Methyl Benzene Sulphonamide has a smaller methyl group instead of an ethyl group, making it slightly less bulky.
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Unsubstituted Benzene Sulphonamide lacks any alkyl substitution, leading to different solubility and reactivity characteristics.
These differences highlight the versatility of the sulphonamide group in organic chemistry.
The Importance of N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide in Organic Chemistry
The study of N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide is crucial for understanding the behavior and reactivity of sulphonamide compounds. Its relatively simple structure makes it an ideal model for exploring:
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Substituent effects on aromatic rings.
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The influence of alkyl groups on solubility and reactivity.
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Applications of sulphonamides in industrial and pharmaceutical contexts.
Future Prospects
As industries continue to innovate, the demand for sulphonamide derivatives like N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide is expected to grow. Research is ongoing to explore new applications, including advanced materials, green chemistry solutions, and novel pharmaceuticals. Its role as a plasticizer and chemical intermediate ensures that it will remain relevant in various fields.
N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide is a versatile organic compound with significant applications in industrial and chemical processes. From its use as a plasticizer to its role as an intermediate in synthesis, it demonstrates the utility of sulphonamide compounds in modern chemistry. Understanding its properties, synthesis, and applications provides a solid foundation for further exploration of organic compounds and their practical uses. Whether you’re a chemistry enthusiast or a professional in the field, N-Ethyl Benzene Sulphonamide is a fascinating compound worth studying.