pentenenitrile

Pentenenitrile is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C5H7N. It is an organic molecule that contains a nitrile functional group (-CN) attached to a five-carbon chain. The "pentene" part of the name indicates the presence of a five-carbon chain with a double bond. Depending on the position of the double bond, there can be several isomers of pentenenitrile. Common isomers include 3-pentenenitrile and 4-pentenenitrile.

These compounds are typically colorless liquids with a distinct odor. Pentenenitriles are unsaturated nitriles, meaning they possess both a carbon-carbon double bond and a nitrile group. This dual functionality makes them reactive and useful intermediates in organic synthesis. They can undergo reactions characteristic of both alkenes and nitriles. For instance, the double bond can participate in addition reactions, while the nitrile group can be hydrolyzed to carboxylic acids or reduced to amines.

Pentenenitriles find applications as building blocks in the production of various chemicals, including polymers, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. Their specific uses depend on the isomer and the desired end product. Due to their reactivity, they are usually handled with appropriate safety precautions in laboratory and industrial settings.