Carbon diselenide

Chemical compound

Carbon diselenide is a chemical compound with the formula CSe₂. It is analogous to carbon disulfide (CS₂), with selenium atoms replacing the sulfur atoms. This compound is of interest in the field of organic chemistry and materials science.

Structure and Properties

Carbon diselenide is a linear molecule, similar in structure to carbon disulfide. The compound is known for its distinctive red color and is less stable than its sulfur analog. The linear structure of carbon diselenide is due to the sp hybridization of the carbon atom, which forms double bonds with each selenium atom.

Synthesis

Carbon diselenide can be synthesized by the reaction of selenium with carbon tetrachloride in the presence of a catalyst. The reaction typically requires elevated temperatures and careful handling due to the reactivity of the intermediates involved.

Applications

While carbon diselenide is not as widely used as carbon disulfide, it has potential applications in the synthesis of organoselenium compounds and as a reagent in chemical reactions involving selenium. Its unique properties make it a subject of study in the development of new materials and catalysts.

Safety and Handling

Carbon diselenide is a volatile and potentially hazardous compound. It should be handled with care in a well-ventilated laboratory setting, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). The compound can decompose to release toxic selenium fumes, so proper storage and disposal procedures must be followed.

See also

• Carbon disulfide
• Organoselenium chemistry
• Selenium compounds