nitrilien
Nitriles are organic compounds that contain the cyano group, a carbon triple-bonded to nitrogen, written as -C≡N. The general formula is a molecule of the form R-CN, where R is an alkyl or aryl group. The cyano group is highly polar, which gives nitriles distinctive physical properties and makes them useful as solvents and reactive intermediates. Nitriles are named by replacing the suffix -ane with -nitrile in the parent hydrocarbon, with acetonitrile and benzonitrile among the most common examples.
Synthesis and production methods vary. Nitriles can be prepared by dehydrating primary amides (R-CONH2) using dehydrating
Properties and reactions of nitriles reflect the polar cyano group. They are relatively stable under many conditions
Applications are broad. Acrylonitrile is a key monomer for polyacrylonitrile fibers and related polymers used in
Safety and environmental considerations are important. Many nitriles are toxic and can release hydrogen cyanide under