CH2ClO
CH2ClO, or chloral, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C2HCl3O. It is a colorless, oily liquid with a sweet, aromatic odor, often described as similar to that of bitter almonds. Chloral was first synthesized in 1832 by the German chemist Justus von Liebig, though its properties were not fully characterized until later. It is derived from acetaldehyde through chlorination, a process that replaces hydrogen atoms with chlorine.
Chloral is primarily used as a precursor in the production of chloral hydrate (C2H3Cl3O2), a sedative and
In industrial applications, chloral serves as a solvent and intermediate in the synthesis of various chemicals,
Chloral is classified as a hazardous substance, and exposure should be minimized through proper ventilation and
Environmental concerns regarding chloral include its persistence and potential bioaccumulation, though its use has been restricted