What is COCl2? Important knowledge about COCl2.

1. Definition of COCl₂

COCl₂, also known as Phosgene or Carbon oxychloride, is an inorganic chemical compound. It is a chemical compound composed of 1 Carbon atom (C), 1 Oxygen atom (O), and 2 Chlorine atoms (Cl). It has a molecular weight of 98.92 g/mol. The molecule of COCl₂ has a linear shape, with a double bond between the Carbon and Oxygen atoms, and two single bonds between the Carbon atom and the two Chlorine atoms. The state of COCl₂ under standard conditions is gaseous.

2. Characteristics: COCl₂

2.1 Physical properties of COCl₂

COCl₂ is a colorless gas, with a quite distinct pungent odor. The pH of COCl₂ is 3.5, indicating that it has mild acidity.

2.2 Chemical properties of COCl₂

COCl₂ reacts strongly with water to produce hydrochloric acid (HCl) and carbonic acid (H₂CO₃). It can also react with compounds containing amino to produce carbamoyl compounds.

3. Common chemical equations for COCl₂

As mentioned above, COCl₂ reacts strongly with water:

COCl₂ + H₂O -> HCl + H₂CO₃

Reaction with ammonia (NH₃):

COCl₂ + 4NH₃ -> CO(NH₂)₂ + 2NH₄Cl

4. Synthesis of COCl₂

4.1 Laboratory synthesis of COCl₂

COCl₂ can be synthesized by reacting chlorine gas (Cl₂) with carbon monoxide (CO) at high temperature:

CO + Cl₂ -> COCl₂

4.2 Industrial synthesis of COCl₂

In industry, COCl₂ is produced by reacting chlorine gas with carbon monoxide in a continuous gas stream with the aid of a metal catalyst.