Ethyl nitrite

Ethyl nitrite is an organic compound with the chemical formula C2H5ONO. A colorless liquid, ethyl nitrite is used in a variety of applications, including as a fuel, a solvent, and in chemical synthesis. It is also known for its use in medicine and in the production of certain types of food.

History

Ethyl nitrite was first synthesized in the 19th century by chemists who were exploring the properties of nitrous oxide. The compound was found to have a number of useful properties, including its ability to act as a solvent and a fuel. In the years since, it has been used in a variety of applications, from the production of plastics and rubber to the creation of pharmaceuticals and food additives.

Properties

Ethyl nitrite is a colorless liquid at room temperature, with a sweet, fruity odor. It is highly volatile and flammable, and it reacts with oxygen to produce nitrogen dioxide, a brown gas. Ethyl nitrite is also a powerful oxidizing agent, which means it can cause other substances to lose electrons.

Uses

Ethyl nitrite has a wide range of uses. In the chemical industry, it is used as a solvent and as a starting material for the synthesis of other chemicals. In the food industry, it is used as a flavoring agent and as a preservative. In medicine, it is used as a vasodilator, a type of drug that widens blood vessels and increases blood flow.

Health effects

Exposure to ethyl nitrite can have a number of health effects. Inhaling the compound can cause respiratory irritation, while ingestion can lead to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Long-term exposure can lead to more serious health problems, including damage to the liver and kidneys.

See also

• Nitrite
• Organic compound
• Chemical synthesis