2chlorohexane

2-Chlorohexane is an organochlorine compound with the chemical formula C6H13Cl. It is a colorless liquid at room temperature. As a halogenated alkane, it is characterized by a hexane backbone with a chlorine atom attached to the second carbon atom. It exists as a chiral molecule, meaning it has a non-superimposable mirror image, and is therefore often encountered as a racemic mixture of its enantiomers, (R)-2-chlorohexane and (S)-2-chlorohexane.

The synthesis of 2-chlorohexane can be achieved through various methods, including the hydrochlorination of hexenes or the reaction of hexanol with chlorinating agents. For instance, the reaction of 2-hexanol with thionyl chloride or phosphorus trichloride can yield 2-chlorohexane.

2-Chlorohexane finds limited direct industrial applications but serves as a precursor or intermediate in organic synthesis. Its reactivity stems from the carbon-chlorine bond, which can undergo nucleophilic substitution and elimination reactions. These reactions are utilized in the production of other organic compounds, such as amines, alcohols, and alkenes. Its environmental fate and toxicity are typical of many short-chain chlorinated hydrocarbons, with considerations for persistence and potential bioaccumulation depending on specific conditions.