CH2 is called methylene or methylidene. It is also sometimes referred to as carbene or methene.
Methylene: In-Depth Explanation
Methylene (systematically named methylidene) is a reactive organic compound with the formula CH2. It's a simple carbene.
Key Characteristics
- Formula: CH2
- IUPAC Name: Methylidene
- Other Names: Carbene, Methene (less common)
- Nature: Colorless gas
- Reactivity: Highly reactive
- Occurrence: Exists in dilution or as an adduct due to its high reactivity. It fluoresces in the mid-infrared range.
Methylene as a Carbene
The term "carbene" refers to a molecule containing a neutral carbon atom with a valence of two and two unshared electrons. Methylene is the simplest example of a carbene. Carbenes are very reactive and often used as intermediates in chemical reactions.
Importance in Chemistry
While methylene itself is not a stable compound under normal conditions, it is an important concept in organic chemistry and plays a role as a reactive intermediate in various reactions such as:
- Polymerization reactions: Methylene units can be inserted into polymer chains.
- Organic Synthesis: Carbenes are used to create cyclopropanes and other strained ring systems.
Summary
In summary, CH2 is typically referred to as methylene or methylidene, and it's an important example of a carbene in chemistry. Its high reactivity makes it a useful intermediate in various organic reactions.
