Cl2CHCOOH

Cl2CHCOOH is the chemical formula for dichloroacetic acid. It is a halogenated carboxylic acid with the molecular formula C2H2Cl2O2. Dichloroacetic acid is a colorless liquid at room temperature and is soluble in water and many organic solvents. It is a stronger acid than acetic acid due to the electron-withdrawing effect of the two chlorine atoms on the adjacent carbon.

This compound can be synthesized through various methods, including the chlorination of acetic acid or the hydrolysis of trichloroethylene. Industrially, it is often produced as an intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals.

Dichloroacetic acid has found applications in medicine, particularly in dermatology, where it has been used as a topical agent for the treatment of warts and other skin lesions. It acts as a protein precipitant and can cause chemical peeling. However, its use requires careful application due to its corrosive nature. In research settings, it has been investigated for potential therapeutic effects in certain metabolic disorders.

The chemical properties of dichloroacetic acid include its acidity and reactivity characteristic of carboxylic acids and halogenated organic compounds. It can undergo esterification, amide formation, and decarboxylation under specific conditions. Due to its acidic and potentially irritating properties, handling dichloroacetic acid requires appropriate safety precautions, including protective gear.