13CCl4

13CCl4, also known as carbon tetrachloride with the carbon-13 isotope, is a stable isotopologue of the chemical compound carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Carbon tetrachloride is a colorless, heavy, volatile liquid with a characteristic sweet smell, historically used in applications such as cleaning agents, fire extinguishers, and in the production of refrigerants.

The molecule consists of a central carbon atom bonded to four chlorine atoms in a tetrahedral geometry. In the case of 13CCl4, the carbon atom is the isotope carbon-13 (^13C), which has an atomic mass of approximately 13 atomic mass units and a natural abundance of about 1.1%. The substitution of the carbon-13 isotope does not significantly alter the chemical properties of the compound but provides important spectroscopic and tracing capabilities.

13CCl4 is used primarily in scientific research, particularly in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The carbon-13 isotope is NMR-active, enabling detailed studies of molecular structure, dynamics, and environments. By using 13CCl4 as a solvent or reference, researchers can obtain detailed NMR spectra that facilitate the structural elucidation of complex organic molecules.

Due to its toxicity and environmental hazards, the use of 13CCl4, like its common isotopologue, has diminished in favor of safer and more environmentally friendly compounds. Nonetheless, its significance persists in analytical chemistry and isotopic labeling studies.

The synthesis of 13CCl4 involves chlorination of ^13C-enriched precursors, typically conducted under controlled laboratory conditions. Its stability, combined with distinctive spectroscopic properties, makes 13CCl4 a valuable tool in scientific investigations despite its limited practical applications outside research contexts.