Which compound is known as methyl cyanide?

Methyl cyanide (CH₃CN) is an organic compound belonging to the nitrile family. Its IUPAC name is acetonitrile, and it is the simplest aliphatic nitrile. The structure of methyl cyanide consists of a methyl group (CH₃–) attached to a cyano group (–C≡N) through a carbon–carbon single bond.

Chemically, acetonitrile can be represented as:
CH₃–C≡N

The cyano group (–C≡N) contains a triple bond between carbon and nitrogen. This bond gives nitriles their characteristic polarity and chemical reactivity. Methyl cyanide is a colorless, volatile liquid with a sweet, ether-like odor. It has a boiling point of about 82°C and is highly polar, making it an excellent solvent in organic synthesis and chromatography.

Preparation:
Methyl cyanide can be prepared by the dehydration of acetamide (CH₃CONH₂) using dehydrating agents such as phosphorus pentoxide (P₂O₅):
CH₃CONH₂ → CH₃CN + H₂O

Chemical Properties:

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  Hydrolysis of methyl cyanide in acidic medium yields acetic acid (CH₃COOH) and ammonia (NH₃).

  
  


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  It acts as a good solvent for both polar and non-polar compounds.

  
  


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  It participates in various organic reactions, such as Grignard reactions and nucleophilic additions.

  
  

Uses:

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  Commonly used as a solvent in organic synthesis and extraction.

  
  


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  Used in the production of pharmaceuticals, perfumes, and acrylic fibers.

  
  


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  Serves as a mobile phase in high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

  
  

Key Facts:

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  Common Name: Methyl cyanide

  
  


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  IUPAC Name: Acetonitrile

  
  


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  Molecular Formula: CH₃CN

  
  


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  Functional Group: Nitrile (–C≡N)

  
  


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  Boiling Point: ~82°C

  
  


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  Type: Polar aprotic solvent

  
  

✅ Correct Answer: C) CH₃CN