Acetone Formula

Acetone is an organic solvent widely used in various applications in industry and everyday life. The formula and properties of acetone are as follows. 

Physical composition

Acetone structure: It is a simple structure, the central group is called a carbonyl group which contains a carbon double-bonded to oxygen, and the same carbon bonded by two methyl groups by single bonds. 

Appearance: Acetone has no color and it is a volatile liquid.

Odor: Acetone has a distinctive, clear, and sweet smell.

Boiling Point: Acetone has a boiling point of approximately 56°C (132.8°F).

Melting Point: Acetone has a melting point of approximately –95°C (–139°F).

Solubility: Acetone forms a homogeneous mixture of water, alcohol, and most organic solvents. That is called miscible property. 

Chemical properties

Solvent: Acetone is an important solvent as it can dissolve many types of substances, like fats, oils, resins, and some plastics.

Reactivity: Acetone reacts with strong oxidizing agents and bases. Otherwise, it is relatively stable. 

Flammability: Acetone is flammable and should be handled with care. 

Chemical reactions

Oxidation: After the oxidation process, acetone can produce acetic acid and other products. 

Example: oxidation to acetic acid 

CH3​COCH3 ​+ O2​→CH3​COOH + CO2

Reduction: On reduction, acetone can produce isopropyl alcohol.

Example: Reduction to isopropyl alcohol

CH3​COCH3 ​+ 2[H] → CH3​CH(OH)CH3​

Condensation Reactions: Acetone plays a role in condensation reactions to form acetone derivatives. 

Kondrat'ev reaction

Formation of acetone cyanohydrin:

Acetone reacts with hydrogen cyanide (HCN) to form acetone cyanohydrin, which is used as an intermediate in organic synthesis. 

Reaction with Hydrogen Cyanide

CH3​COCH3 ​+ HCN → CH3​C(OH)CNCH3​​

Acetone in Friedel-Crafts reactions:

Acetone can be a reactant in Friedel-Crafts reaction, forming various ketone derivatives, when reacted with aromatic compounds in the presence of a Lewis acid catalyst.

Friedel-Crafts Acylation

Dehydration: After dehydration, acetone forms mesityl oxide, a product of elimination.

Dehydration reaction 

Application

Industrial applications:

Solvent: Used as a solvent or cleaning agent in many industrial processes. 

Extraction: Acetone is used in the extraction of some of the natural substances, including essential oils.

Production: Acetone is useful in the production of chemicals. For example methyl methacrylate and bisphenol A.

Household uses:

Nail polish remover: Commonly used as nail polish remover.

Cleaning: Used for cleaning purposes, such as removing grease and stains from surfaces. 

Laboratory applications: Used as a solvent and reagent in chemical laboratories for various reactions and extractions.

Safety and Handling

Do not inhale as acetone vapors can cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, and headaches. Heavy intake can affect the central nervous system. It should be used in an open area, away from direct flames. Proper PPE should be worn.