singlenitro

Singlenitro is an informal term used in organic chemistry to describe molecules that bear exactly one nitro group (-NO2) attached to an organic framework. The designation is not a formal IUPAC class, but it is used to distinguish mononitro compounds from those containing two or more nitro substituents (dinitro, trinitro, etc.). In this sense, singlenitro emphasizes the presence of a single nitro substituent rather than a specific skeletal structure.

In nomenclature, singlenitro covers a wide range of compounds where a single nitro group is bonded to a carbon-containing backbone. Common examples include nitrobenzene and nitrotoluenes, such as ortho-nitrotoluene, meta-nitrotoluene, and para-nitrotoluene. Because many hydrocarbons can host a nitro group at multiple positions, the precise structure is usually specified (for example, 4-nitrotoluene indicates the nitro group is para to the methyl substituent).

Preparation and isolation of singlenitro compounds typically involve nitration reactions, commonly using a mixture of concentrated sulfuric and nitrous acids. Reaction conditions are adjusted to favor mononitration, but mixtures containing secondary or polynitrated products can form. Purification often requires separation techniques such as chromatography or fractional crystallization to isolate the desired mononitro compound.

Applications of singlenitro compounds lie mainly in chemical synthesis and industry. They serve as key intermediates for the production of amines, dyes, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. Reduction of a nitro group to an amine is a common transformation, enabling onward functionalization. Safety considerations are important, as nitro compounds can be toxic and some are energetic or potentially sensitive to shock or heat.

See also: nitro group, mononitration, nitroaromatic compound, reduction of nitro groups.