C2HCl3O2

C2HCl3O2 refers to trichloroacetic acid (TCA), a chlorinated derivative of acetic acid and a strong organic acid. It is widely used in laboratories and various industries for its acidity and chemical reactivity. The molecule consists of a methyl group substituted with three chlorine atoms and a carboxyl group, which together give rise to a markedly low pKa and high acidity relative to acetic acid.

Trichloroacetic acid is a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water and miscible with many organic solvents. Its acidity is enhanced by the electron-withdrawing chlorine atoms, with a pKa around 0.6 to 0.7. This strong acidity enables TCA to protonate bases and to act as a catalyst or reactant in various organic transformations.

Industrial production of TCA typically involves the chlorination of acetic acid in successive steps, yielding monochloro-, dichloro-, and finally trichloroacetic acids. The process often proceeds under controlled temperatures and with catalysts or reaction conditions that favor complete chlorination, followed by purification to obtain the acid or its salts.

In practical use, trichloroacetic acid serves as a laboratory reagent for protein precipitation and DNA extraction, often in conjunction with organic solvents or precipitation protocols. It is also employed in dermatology as a chemical peeling agent at controlled concentrations for cosmetic and therapeutic skin treatments. Other applications include esterification and as a strong acid catalyst in certain organic syntheses.

Safety and handling: TCA is corrosive and irritant to skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract. It can cause severe burns upon contact and is toxic if ingested or inhaled. It should be stored in a cool, dry place in tightly closed containers, away from bases and incompatible oxidizers, with appropriate personal protective equipment during handling.