Ethylene bis(iodoacetate)

Ethylene bis(iodoacetate)

Ethylene bis(iodoacetate) is a chemical compound with the formula C4H4I2O4. It is a derivative of ethylene, a colorless flammable gas that is the simplest alkene, and iodoacetic acid, a strong organic acid.

Structure and Properties

Ethylene bis(iodoacetate) is a crystalline solid at room temperature. It is composed of two iodoacetate groups attached to an ethylene backbone. The iodoacetate groups are electron-withdrawing, which makes the compound highly reactive.

Synthesis

Ethylene bis(iodoacetate) can be synthesized by the reaction of ethylene with iodoacetic acid in the presence of a base. The reaction proceeds via a nucleophilic substitution mechanism, with the iodoacetate groups replacing the hydrogen atoms on the ethylene molecule.

Applications

Due to its high reactivity, ethylene bis(iodoacetate) is used in a variety of chemical reactions. It is particularly useful in the synthesis of other organic compounds, where it can act as a source of iodoacetate groups.

Safety

Like many iodine-containing compounds, ethylene bis(iodoacetate) is toxic and should be handled with care. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and if ingested or inhaled, it can cause damage to the internal organs.

See Also

• Ethylene
• Iodoacetic acid
• Nucleophilic substitution