Picric acid

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Picric Acid

Picric acid, also known as 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP), is a chemical compound with the formula C6H2(NO2)3OH. It is one of the most acidic phenols. Like other highly nitrated compounds such as TNT, picric acid is an explosive.

History[edit | edit source]

Picric acid was first synthesized in 1771 by Peter Woulfe, an Irish chemist, by the action of nitric acid on indigo. Its name comes from the Greek word pikros, which means bitter, due to its bitter taste.

Properties[edit | edit source]

Picric acid is a yellow crystalline solid, which is odorless when dry but has a strong, unpleasant odor when wet. It is slightly soluble in water and more so in ethanol. It is highly sensitive to shock and friction, making it a powerful explosive.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Picric acid has been used for many purposes throughout history. It was used as a yellow dye in the 19th century. In the early 20th century, it was used as an antiseptic and a treatment for burns. Today, it is primarily used in laboratories for the preparation of picrate salts, which are used in the analysis of metals.

Safety[edit | edit source]

Due to its explosive nature, picric acid must be handled with care. It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from sources of ignition. It should not be allowed to come into contact with metals, as this can form highly sensitive picrate salts.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD