A

Acetic anhydride

IUPAC: acetyl acetate

C4H6O3 Organic Compounds CAS 108-24-7
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationC4H6O3
CAS Number108-24-7
Molecular Weight102.09
Melting Point-99.6 °F (NTP, 1992)
Boiling Point283.19 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)
Density1.08 (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink
SolubilitySoluble in cold (greater than or equal to 10mg/ml); Decomposes in hot (NTP, 1992)
AppearanceAcetic anhydride appears as a clear colorless liquid with a strong odor of vinegar. Flash point 129 °F. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Density 9.0 lb /gal. Used to make fibers, plastics, pharmace...
Also Known Asacetyl acetate; Acetyl acetate; 108-24-7; Acetanhydride; Ethanoic anhydride; Acetyl oxide; Acetyl anhydride; Acetic oxide; Acetic acid, anhydride; acetic acid anhydride
CategoryOrganic Compounds

What is Acetic anhydride?

Acetic anhydride is an acyclic carboxylic anhydride derived from acetic acid. It has a role as a metabolite and a reagent.

Formula & Notation

C4H6O3

IUPAC Name: acetyl acetate

Other Names / Synonyms: acetyl acetate; Acetyl acetate; 108-24-7; Acetanhydride; Ethanoic anhydride; Acetyl oxide; Acetyl anhydride; Acetic oxide; Acetic acid, anhydride; acetic acid anhydride

Properties & Characteristics

Appearance: Acetic anhydride appears as a clear colorless liquid with a strong odor of vinegar. Flash point 129 °F. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Density 9.0 lb /gal. Used to make fibers, plastics, pharmace.... Molecular formula: C4H6O3. Molecular weight: 102.09 g/mol. Boiling point: 283.19 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992). Melting point: -99.6 °F (NTP, 1992). Density: 1.08 (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink. Solubility: Soluble in cold (greater than or equal to 10mg/ml); Decomposes in hot (NTP, 1992). Vapor pressure: 10 mmHg at 96.8 °F (NTP, 1992). LogP: -0.1.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point-99.6 °F (NTP, 1992)
Boiling Point283.19 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)
Density1.08 (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink
Molecular Weight102.09
SolubilitySoluble in cold (greater than or equal to 10mg/ml); Decomposes in hot (NTP, 1992)
AppearanceAcetic anhydride appears as a clear colorless liquid with a strong odor of vinegar. Flash point 129 °F. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Density 9.0 lb /gal. Used to make fibers, plastics, pharmace...

Uses & Applications

Used as an industrial feedstock, solvent, pharmaceutical intermediate, flavoring agent, or chemical building block.

Safety Information

Flammable or irritant. Many organic compounds are flammable liquids or vapours. Keep away from ignition sources. Consult SDS for specific hazard data.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Acetic anhydride
Formula C4H6O3
CAS Number 108-24-7
Molecular Weight 102.09
Synonyms acetyl acetate; Acetyl acetate; 108-24-7; Acetanhydride; Ethanoic anhydride; Acetyl oxide; Acetyl anhydride; Acetic oxide; Acetic acid, anhydride; acetic acid anhydride

Frequently Asked Questions

Acetic anhydride is an acyclic carboxylic anhydride derived from acetic acid. It has a role as a metabolite and a reagent.

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Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.