C4H6Cl4

C4H6Cl4 is a chemical formula that can represent several different organic compounds, all isomers of tetrachlorobutane. These compounds are saturated hydrocarbons where four hydrogen atoms in butane have been replaced by chlorine atoms. The specific arrangement of these chlorine atoms on the four-carbon chain determines the precise isomer. Examples include 1,1,1,2-tetrachlorobutane, 1,1,2,2-tetrachlorobutane, 1,1,2,3-tetrachlorobutane, and 1,1,2,4-tetrachlorobutane, among others.

The physical and chemical properties of C4H6Cl4 isomers vary depending on their specific structure. Generally, they are expected to be relatively nonpolar due to the symmetrical distribution of chlorine atoms in some isomers, though polarity can increase with less symmetrical arrangements. These compounds are likely to be liquids at room temperature and may possess characteristic odors. Their reactivity will be influenced by the position of the chlorine atoms, with primary or secondary carbon atoms bearing chlorine atoms being more susceptible to nucleophilic substitution reactions than tertiary or quaternary ones.

The synthesis of C4H6Cl4 isomers typically involves the chlorination of butane or related four-carbon compounds. This can be achieved through various methods, including radical chlorination or addition reactions of chlorine to unsaturated hydrocarbons. Applications for specific tetrachlorobutane isomers are not widespread, but related chlorinated hydrocarbons have found uses as solvents, refrigerants, and intermediates in chemical synthesis. Due to the presence of chlorine, environmental persistence and potential toxicity are considerations for these compounds.