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Fluoroform

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Identification
Molecular formula
CHF3
CAS number
75-46-7
IUPAC name
fluoroform
State
State

At room temperature, fluoroform is a gaseous compound. It is stable under normal conditions and is non-flammable.

Melting point (Celsius)
-155.20
Melting point (Kelvin)
117.95
Boiling point (Celsius)
-82.10
Boiling point (Kelvin)
191.05
General information
Molecular weight
70.01g/mol
Molar mass
70.0140g/mol
Density
1.5630g/cm3
Appearence

Fluoroform is a colorless gas at room temperature. It is often noted for its high density compared to air, allowing it to be easily captured and contained. Though it is gaseous, under proper conditions it can be compressed into a liquid state, which is also colorless.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Fluoroform

Fluoroform, with the chemical formula CHF3, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that are worth noting. It is a colorless gas at room temperature, and its behavior in different solvents varies significantly.

Solubility in Water

Fluoroform has limited solubility in water, primarily due to its molecular structure and non-polar characteristics. Some key points regarding its interaction with water include:

  • Low polarity: The presence of fluorine atoms contributes to its non-polar nature, making it less likely to dissolve in polar solvents like water.
  • Hydrophobic behavior: As a hydrofluorocarbon, fluoroform tends to repel water molecules, leading to its overall lower solubility.

Solubility in Organic Solvents

Fluoroform, however, exhibits much better solubility in various organic solvents. Some examples include:

  • Chloroform
  • Diethyl ether
  • Toluene

These solvents provide a more compatible environment for fluoroform due to their non-polar characteristics, allowing it to dissolve more readily. This trait can be particularly useful in organic synthesis and various chemical applications.

In summary, while fluoroform has minimal solubility in water, it demonstrates appreciable solubility in organic solvents, making it a versatile compound in the realm of chemical interactions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Fluoroform

Fluoroform, also known as trifluoromethane, is a fascinating chemical compound that belongs to the family of halomethanes. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Use in Industry: Fluoroform is primarily utilized as a refrigerant and in various industrial applications, especially in the production of fluoropolymers. Its properties make it an essential component in creating substances that withstand high temperatures and resist chemical exposure.
  • Environmental Impact: Despite its usefulness, fluoroform is classified as a potent greenhouse gas. Its global warming potential is significant, and it contributes to climate change, making its management and regulation an important subject of study.
  • Inhalation Risks: Exposure to fluoroform can pose health risks, particularly through inhalation. It is critical for laboratory personnel to adhere to safety protocols when handling this compound, as it can cause respiratory irritation.
  • Chemical Properties: Fluoroform is characterized by its relatively low reactivity, which widens its applications. This stability allows it to be used in environments where other reagents might react in unwanted ways.
  • Analytical Chemistry: In the field of analytical chemistry, fluoroform serves as a useful solvent and reagent, especially in NMR spectroscopy, where it helps in dissolving various compounds for detailed analysis.

In summary, fluoroform is a compound that showcases the duality of being both valuable in industrial applications and a concern for environmental health. As scientists continue to explore its properties and uses, it remains a significant topic of discussion in both chemical research and environmental science.

Synonyms
TRIFLUOROMETHANE
Fluoroform
75-46-7
Methane, trifluoro-
Carbon trifluoride
Freon 23
Methyl trifluoride
Halocarbon 23
Fluoryl
Freon F-23
Refrigerant 23
Propellant 23
Arcton 1
Genetron-23
CHF3
HFC-23
R 23 (halocarbon)
Freon R 23
FC 23 (fluorocarbon)
HSDB 5207
EINECS 200-872-4
Genetron HFC23
UNII-ZJ51L9A260
BRN 1731035
R 23
FLUOROFORM [MI]
CF3H
TRIFLUOROMETHANE [HSDB]
HFC 23
DTXSID0026410
CHEBI:41550
EC 200-872-4
ZJ51L9A260
4-01-00-00024 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
UN 1984
R-23
UN1984
UN3136
Arcton
trifluoromethane-
Fluorocarbon-11
Genetron 23
MFCD00000446
ECOLO ACE 23
Trifluoromethane 99.95%
Trifluoromethane, >=98%
HFC23
FRON 23
HCFC 23
REFRIGERANT GAS R-23
DTXCID706410
TRIFLUOROMETHANE (CHF3)
DTXSID40177184
FC 23
Trifluoromethane, refrigerated liquid
AKOS015853018
Trifluoromethane or Refrigerant gas R 23 [UN1984] [Nonflammable gas]
InChI=1/CHF3/c2-1(3)4/h1
Trifluoromethane or Refrigerant gas R 23
NS00007216
Q410612
Trifluoromethane, refrigerated liquid [UN3136] [Nonflammable gas]