Table of Contents
Benzene Hexachloride Introduction
- Benzene hexachloride (BHC) is an organochlorine pesticide that was first synthesized in 1874. It is a colorless, oily liquid that is soluble in organic solvents but not in water. BHC is used as a pesticide to control insects on crops and as a wood preservative. It is also used in the production of other chemicals.
- BHC is a known human carcinogen. It can cause cancer of the lungs, liver, and skin. It can also cause damage to the nervous system. BHC is toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms.
Preparation of Benzene Hexachloride
Benzene hexachloride is a white solid that is soluble in organic solvents. It can be prepared by the chlorination of benzene using chlorine gas.
Benzene Hexachloride Structure – C6H6C16
- Benzene hexachloride is a white solid with a slightly chlorinated odor. It is soluble in organic solvents, but insoluble in water.
- Benzene hexachloride is a chlorinated derivative of benzene. It has a six-carbon chain with one chlorine atom attached to each carbon atom. The carbon-chlorine bonds are very strong, so the molecule is very stable.
Benzene Hexachloride Structural Formula
Benzene hexachloride is a white crystalline solid with a characteristic chlorinated odor. It is soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol. Benzene hexachloride is used as a fumigant and insecticide. It is toxic by ingestion and inhalation.
Properties of Benzene Hexachloride
Benzene hexachloride is a colorless liquid that is highly flammable. It has a strong, unpleasant odor and is poisonous if ingested. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and is harmful to the environment.
Uses of Benzene Hexachloride
Benzene hexachloride has a variety of uses. It is used as a flame retardant, a pesticide, and a wood preservative.
Benzene Hexachloride Health Risks
Benzene hexachloride is a hazardous chemical that can cause a number of health problems. Breathing in this substance can cause irritation to the nose, throat, and lungs. It can also cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Ingesting this chemical can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Prolonged exposure to benzene hexachloride can lead to more serious health problems, such as damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system.
Chemical Properties of Benzene Hexachloride
Benzene hexachloride is a colorless liquid with a chloroform-like odor. It is soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol. Benzene hexachloride is a powerful insecticide and is also used as a fumigant.
Exposure of Benzene Hexachloride to Sunlight
- Benzene hexachloride is a colorless, oily liquid that is slightly soluble in water. It is used as a pesticide.
- Benzene hexachloride is exposed to sunlight when it is used as a pesticide. Sunlight causes the benzene hexachloride to break down into other chemicals, including benzene and chlorine. These chemicals can be harmful to people and the environment.
Incompatibilities of Benzene Hexachloride
Benzene hexachloride is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents.
Waste Disposal
The City of Ottawa provides curbside waste collection to all residents and businesses. Collection services are provided for household garbage, recycling, green bin organics, and large item collection.
The City also operates the Ottawa Landfill. The Ottawa Landfill is a Class III landfill that accepts household garbage, recycling, and green bin organics.
