chloroacetone: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very lowTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “chloroacetone” mean?
A chemical compound used as a lachrymatory agent, chemical intermediate, and former chemical warfare agent.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A chemical compound used as a lachrymatory agent, chemical intermediate, and former chemical warfare agent.
An organic compound belonging to the halogenated ketone class, with applications in organic synthesis, research, and historically as a tear gas.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences; minor potential variation in pronunciation.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both dialects.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general discourse, with identical low frequency in specialised fields in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “chloroacetone” in a Sentence
Chloroacetone is used as a(n) [agent/intermediate].The [synthesis/reaction] requires chloroacetone.[Researchers/Technicians] handle chloroacetone with care.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chloroacetone” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The chloroacetone solution was prepared under the fume hood.
- A chloroacetone derivative was synthesised.
American English
- The chloroacetone solution was prepared under the fume hood.
- A chloroacetone derivative was synthesized.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Potentially in contexts of chemical manufacturing, safety data sheets (SDS), or regulatory compliance for hazardous materials.
Academic
Used in organic chemistry textbooks, research papers on ketone reactions, halogenated compounds, or historical studies of chemical warfare.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Standard term in chemical nomenclature; used in laboratory protocols, chemical catalogs, and safety documentation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chloroacetone”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chloroacetone”
- Misspelling as 'chloracetone' (missing 'o').
- Incorrect pronunciation stressing the first syllable (/ˈklɔːrəʊæsɪtoʊn/).
- Assuming it is a common or safe household chemical.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, chloroacetone is a toxic, lachrymatory (tear-inducing), and irritant compound. It must be handled with appropriate personal protective equipment and in a well-ventilated area or fume hood.
Its primary uses are as a chemical intermediate in organic synthesis and in research. Historically, it was used as a tear gas.
It has a sharp, irritating, acrid odour that is characteristic of many lachrymatory agents.
It is typically produced by the chlorination of acetone, often using chlorine gas or other chlorinating agents under controlled conditions.
A chemical compound used as a lachrymatory agent, chemical intermediate, and former chemical warfare agent.
Chloroacetone is usually technical/scientific in register.
Chloroacetone: in British English it is pronounced /ˌklɔːrəʊˈæsɪtəʊn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌklɔːroʊˈæsɪtoʊn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'CHLORO' (like chlorine/chlorophyll) + 'ACETONE' (a common solvent). It's a chlorinated form of acetone.
Practice
Quiz
Chloroacetone is best described as a: