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Dimethyl Sulfite: Molecular Architecture and Chemical Utility

An in-depth exploration of the structure, synthesis, properties, and applications of this essential sulfite ester.

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Molecular Structure

Conformations and Geometry

Dimethyl sulfite, represented by the chemical formula (CH3O)2SO, is a sulfite ester. Its molecular structure allows for various spatial arrangements known as conformations. The most energetically stable conformation is designated as the GG conformer. In this arrangement, each carbon-oxygen (Cโ€“O) bond exhibits a gauche relationship with the sulfur-double bond oxygen (S=O) bond.

The 2D representation illustrates the spatial orientation of the methyl groups relative to the central sulfite group in the stable GG conformation:

Structural formula of the GG conformation of dimethyl sulfite
Structural formula of the GG conformation of dimethyl sulfite.

This specific arrangement minimizes steric hindrance between the methyl groups and the sulfite moiety, contributing to its stability.

Synthesis Pathway

Reaction Mechanism

Dimethyl sulfite is synthesized through the reaction of thionyl chloride (SOCl2) with methanol (CH3OH) in a 1:2 molar ratio. This reaction is often facilitated by tertiary amine bases, which act as catalysts. The process is understood to proceed via a chlorosulfinate intermediate (MeOS(O)Cl). While this intermediate can potentially decompose through an SNi mechanism to yield methyl chloride and sulfur dioxide, this pathway is less significant under typical reaction conditions due to the rapid reaction of the intermediate with excess methanol.

Chemical Equation

SOClโ‚‚ + 2 CHโ‚ƒOH โ†’ (CHโ‚ƒO)โ‚‚SO + 2 HCl

This equation represents the overall stoichiometry of the synthesis, yielding dimethyl sulfite and hydrogen chloride as byproducts.

Physicochemical Properties

Key Data Points

Dimethyl sulfite exhibits the following characteristic properties:

  • Chemical Formula: C2H6O3S
  • Molar Mass: 110.13 gยทmolโˆ’1
  • Appearance: Clear liquid
  • Density: 1.29 g/cm3
  • Boiling Point: 126 ยฐC (259 ยฐF; 399 K)

These properties are typically reported under standard conditions (25 ยฐC, 100 kPa), unless otherwise specified.

Identifiers and Representations

For precise identification and data retrieval, Dimethyl Sulfite is cataloged under various standard identifiers:

  • CAS Number: 616-42-2
  • ChEBI ID: CHEBI:48858
  • ChemSpider ID: 62436
  • PubChem CID: 69223
  • InChI: InChI=1S/C2H6O3S/c1-4-6(3)5-2/h1-2H3
  • SMILES: COS(=O)OC (or O=S(OC)OC)

Interactive 3D models are also available for detailed structural analysis.

Industrial Applications

Polymer Stabilization

Dimethyl sulfite finds utility as an additive in certain polymer formulations. Its primary role in this context is to act as an antioxidant, helping to prevent the degradation of the polymer material over time. This function is crucial for extending the lifespan and maintaining the integrity of polymeric products.

Energy Storage

Emerging research indicates that dimethyl sulfite possesses potential as a solvent for electrolytes in high-energy battery systems. Its electrochemical properties may contribute to improved battery performance and stability, making it a subject of interest in the field of advanced energy storage solutions.

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References

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Dimethyl sulfite Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence model and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data, primarily from Wikipedia, and may not be entirely comprehensive, accurate, or current.

This is not professional chemical advice. The information presented here should not be considered a substitute for expert consultation regarding chemical safety, handling, usage, or specific industrial applications. Always refer to official safety data sheets (SDS), technical documentation, and consult with qualified chemical professionals for any practical or safety-related matters.

The creators of this content assume no responsibility for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this information.