Nitrilverbindungen

Nitrilverbindungen, also known as nitriles, are organic compounds characterized by the presence of a cyano functional group, which consists of a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom (C≡N). This functional group is highly polar and contributes to the unique chemical properties of nitriles.

The general formula for nitriles is R-C≡N, where R represents an alkyl, aryl, or other organic group. Simple nitriles include acetonitrile (CH₃C≡N), which is a common solvent and a precursor in organic synthesis. Acrylonitrile (CH₂=CHC≡N) is an important monomer used in the production of plastics like ABS and synthetic fibers like acrylic.

Nitriles can be synthesized through various methods, including the dehydration of amides, the nucleophilic substitution of alkyl halides with cyanide ions, and the addition of hydrogen cyanide to aldehydes and ketones. The cyano group can undergo a variety of chemical reactions. It can be hydrolyzed to carboxylic acids or amides, reduced to amines, and undergo addition reactions. These reactions make nitriles valuable intermediates in the synthesis of a wide range of organic molecules, including pharmaceuticals, dyes, and polymers.

In terms of physical properties, nitriles are often liquids with relatively high boiling points due to the polarity of the cyano group. Their solubility in water varies depending on the size of the R group; smaller nitriles are generally soluble, while larger ones are less so. Some nitriles can be toxic, particularly those that can release hydrogen cyanide in biological systems.