4bromobutyric

4-Bromobutyric acid, also known as 4-bromobutanoic acid, is an organobromine compound with the chemical formula Br(CH2)3COOH. It is a carboxylic acid containing a bromine atom at the gamma position (the fourth carbon atom away from the carboxyl group). It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid or low-melting solid.

The compound is primarily used as a chemical intermediate in organic synthesis. Its reactive bromine atom can be readily displaced by various nucleophiles, allowing for the introduction of different functional groups into the butyric acid chain. This makes it a valuable building block for the synthesis of more complex molecules, including pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty polymers. For instance, it can be reacted with amines to form amino acids or with thiols to form thioethers.

4-Bromobutyric acid is typically synthesized by the reaction of gamma-butyrolactone with hydrogen bromide. Alternatively, it can be prepared by the bromination of butyric acid under specific conditions, though this method is less common for selective gamma-bromination.

Safety precautions should be taken when handling 4-bromobutyric acid as it can be corrosive and irritating to skin, eyes, and respiratory tracts. It should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from incompatible materials such as strong bases and oxidizing agents.