Metüülliitium

Metüülliitium is an organometallic compound with the chemical formula CH3Li. It is a colorless liquid, though it often appears yellow or gray due to impurities. Metüülliitium is a highly reactive and pyrophoric substance, meaning it ignites spontaneously in air. It is primarily used as a strong base and a nucleophile in organic synthesis.

This compound is typically prepared by the reaction of methyl halide (like methyl chloride or methyl bromide) with lithium metal in an ethereal solvent, such as diethyl ether or tetrahydrofuran. The reaction is carried out under an inert atmosphere to prevent decomposition and ignition. Due to its extreme reactivity, metüülliitium is usually handled in solution and stored under a blanket of inert gas.

In organic chemistry, metüülliitium is employed in a variety of reactions. As a strong base, it can deprotonate weakly acidic compounds, such as terminal alkynes and alcohols. As a nucleophile, it can attack electrophilic centers, such as carbonyl groups, to form new carbon-carbon bonds. This makes it a valuable reagent for the synthesis of complex organic molecules, including pharmaceuticals and natural products. Its high reactivity also necessitates careful handling and specialized laboratory equipment to ensure safety.