diethylacetylene

Diethylacetylene, also known as 3-hexyne, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H10. It is an alkyne, characterized by the presence of a carbon-carbon triple bond. Specifically, the triple bond is located between the third and fourth carbon atoms in a six-carbon chain, with ethyl groups attached to each end. Its systematic IUPAC name is 3-hexyne. Diethylacetylene is a colorless liquid at room temperature and pressure. It has a characteristic odor, common to many alkynes.

The synthesis of diethylacetylene can be achieved through various methods, often involving the dehydrohalogenation of dihaloalkanes. For instance, treating 3,4-dibromohexane with a strong base can yield diethylacetylene. It is also a possible product in some Grignard reactions.

Diethylacetylene participates in the typical reactions of alkynes. These include addition reactions across the triple bond, such as hydrogenation to form alkenes or alkanes, and halogenation. It can also undergo cycloaddition reactions. Due to the triple bond, it is a relatively reactive molecule. Diethylacetylene finds limited direct industrial applications, but it serves as a building block or intermediate in the synthesis of more complex organic molecules in research and specialized chemical production. Its physical properties, such as boiling point and solubility, are important for its handling and purification in laboratory settings.