Methylzinc

Methylzinc is an organozinc compound with the chemical formula CH3Zn. It is a colorless liquid that is highly reactive and pyrophoric, meaning it ignites spontaneously in air. Methylzinc is commonly used as a precursor in the synthesis of various zinc-containing compounds and as a reagent in organic synthesis. It is also employed in the production of certain polymers and as a catalyst in various chemical reactions.

The compound is typically prepared by the reaction of zinc with methyl iodide or methyl chloride. It can also be synthesized by the reaction of zinc with methylmagnesium bromide or methylmagnesium chloride. Methylzinc is highly toxic and should be handled with extreme care. It is soluble in organic solvents but reacts violently with water, releasing hydrogen gas and forming zinc hydroxide.

In organic synthesis, methylzinc is used as a methylating agent, transferring a methyl group to various substrates. It is also used in the synthesis of Grignard reagents and as a catalyst in the polymerization of ethylene. The compound is known for its high reactivity and selectivity, making it a valuable tool in the synthesis of complex organic molecules.

Methylzinc is a versatile reagent in the field of organometallic chemistry, but its handling requires strict safety precautions due to its pyrophoric nature and toxicity. Researchers and industrial chemists must take appropriate measures to ensure safety when working with this compound.