Question

Draw the structure of DDT, and state what the initials stand for.

Short answer

DDT (Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane) is composed of two chlorinated benzene rings connected by a chlorinated carbon chain.

Step-by-step solution

Identify DDT's Full Name

DDT stands for Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane. Understanding this full name helps us deduce the structure by knowing what chemical groups are involved.

Break Down the Chemical Name

The name 'Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane' indicates that the molecule is composed of two phenyl groups (rings), each with two chlorine atoms (dichloro) and a trichloroethane group attached.

Draw the Basic Phenyl Structure

Draw two benzene rings (phenyl groups). A benzene ring is a hexagon with alternating double bonds, represented here as a hexagon with a circle inside to depict aromaticity.

Attach Chlorine Atoms to Phenyl

Attach one chlorine atom to two positions (typically the para- and ortho-positions) on each benzene ring.

Add the Trichloroethane Chain

Draw a central ethane (two-carbon) chain. Attach one carbon from this chain to each of the benzene rings; the other carbon connects to three chlorine atoms (trichloro-).

Key concepts

Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane

Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane, commonly known as DDT, is a well-known chemical compound. The name itself gives clues about its structure. To break it down:

• "Dichloro" indicates the presence of two chlorine atoms attached to some part of the molecule.
• "Diphenyl" suggests two phenyl groups—these are benzene rings acting as major components of the structure.
• "Trichloroethane" points to a two-carbon chain with three chlorine atoms attached to it. This component is binding the phenyl groups together.

Developed in the 1940s, DDT was extensively used to control malaria and other insect-borne diseases. Due to its environmental impact, its usage has significantly declined. Understanding its full name aids in visualizing its chemical composition.

chemical structure

The chemical structure of DDT is based on its distinct organic components. Starting with two benzene rings, these act as the backbone of the molecule. A benzene ring, known for its stability, is composed of six carbon atoms arranged in a hexagon with alternating double bonds. This hexagonal arrangement is often symbolized by a hexagon with a circle inside.

To build the DDT molecule:

• Each benzene ring (the phenyl groups) is modified by adding one chlorine atom on two different positions, traditionally at the para (opposite) and ortho (neighbor) positions.
• The strategic placement of these chlorines can profoundly affect the chemical properties of the molecule.
• The next step is the attachment of an ethane chain, where two carbon atoms connect the phenyl rings, and its free ends carry three chlorine atoms, giving the name "trichloroethane."

Visualizing the complete structure can help to understand the stability and reactivity of DDT, along with its environmental persistence.

organic chemistry

Organic chemistry is the study of carbon-containing compounds, of which DDT is a classic example. This field examines how these compounds are structured, synthesized, and interact with living organisms and the environment.

In organic chemistry:

• The ability to visualize chemical structures is crucial, and compounds like DDT make use of standardized naming conventions that reveal a lot about their makeup.
• The study includes understanding how aromaticity, as seen in benzene rings, impacts the stability of molecules.
• It also involves insight into functional groups, like chlorines in DDT, which can significantly modify a molecule's function and behavior.

Organic chemistry ultimately helps us understand not just the physical structure of compounds, but also the implications these structures have on their use and effect on human health and ecology.