Dichloroethylene
Dichloroethylene
Dichloroethylene (pronunciation: dye-klor-oh-eth-uh-leen) is a type of organic compound that is a colorless liquid with a mild, sweet smell. It is used in a variety of industrial applications, including as a solvent, a refrigerant, and in the production of vinyl chloride.
Etymology
The term "Dichloroethylene" is derived from the Greek words "dichloros" meaning "two chlorine atoms" and "ethylene," which is a type of hydrocarbon.
Related Terms
- Chlorine: A chemical element with the symbol Cl and atomic number 17. It is a yellow-green gas under standard conditions, where it forms diatomic molecules.
- Ethylene: A hydrocarbon which is the simplest alkene (a hydrocarbon with carbon-carbon double bonds).
- Vinyl Chloride: An organochloride with the formula H2C=CHCl that is also called vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) or chloroethene.
- Organic Compound: Any member of a large class of gaseous, liquid, or solid chemical compounds whose molecules contain carbon.
Usage
Dichloroethylene is primarily used in the production of Vinyl chloride, which is used to make a variety of plastic and vinyl products. It is also used as a refrigerant in air conditioning systems, and as a solvent in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and other chemical products.
Health Effects
Exposure to high levels of dichloroethylene can cause a variety of health effects, including liver damage, lung damage, and an increased risk of cancer. It is important to handle this chemical with care and to follow all safety guidelines when using it.
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