1-Bromooctane (CAS 111-83-1)

1-Bromooctane, with the chemical formula C8H17Br and CAS number 111-83-1, is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow organic compound belonging to the class of alkyl halides. It is characterized by a long carbon chain terminated by a bromine atom, which plays a crucial role in its chemical reactivity and applications in research. Primarily used in organic synthesis, 1-bromooctane acts as an alkylating agent, facilitating the introduction of an octyl group into various molecular frameworks. This capability is particularly valuable in the study of carbon-chain interactions and the synthesis of more complex organic molecules. Its mechanism of action involves nucleophilic substitution reactions where the bromine atom, being a good leaving group, is replaced by other nucleophiles. This property is exploited in the preparation of esters, ethers, and other derivatives, which are essential in developing new materials and studying reaction kinetics and mechanisms. Moreover, 1-bromooctane is used in phase transfer catalysis experiments, a technique employed to increase the rate of reactions by transferring a reactant between different phases. In this context, it serves as a model compound to explore the efficacy of catalysts in promoting interphase transfer and reaction completion. Its relatively straightforward structure and reactivity make it an ideal candidate for educational purposes in teaching advanced organic chemistry concepts such as reaction mechanisms and the properties of halogenated compounds.