D

Diazomethane

IUPAC: diazomethane

CH2N2 Laboratory Reagents CAS 334-88-3
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationCH2N2
CAS Number334-88-3
Molecular Weight42.040
Melting Point-229 °F (NIOSH, 2024)
Boiling Point-9 °F at 760 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024)
Density1.45
SolubilityReacts with water (NIOSH, 2024)
AppearanceDiazomethane is a yellow gas with a musty odor that is shipped as a liquid under pressure. (NIOSH, 2024) Highly toxic by inhalation.
Also Known AsAzimethylene; 334-88-3; Acomethylene; Methane, diazo-; Diazonium methylide; 60A625P70P; DTXSID0024008; CHEBI:73716; azomethylene; RefChem:388924
CategoryLaboratory Reagents

What is Diazomethane?

Diazomethane is the simplest diazo compound, in which a diazo group is attached to a methylene group. It has a role as an alkylating agent, an antineoplastic agent, a carcinogenic agent and a poison.

Formula & Notation

CH2N2

IUPAC Name: diazomethane

Other Names / Synonyms: Azimethylene; 334-88-3; Acomethylene; Methane, diazo-; Diazonium methylide; 60A625P70P; DTXSID0024008; CHEBI:73716; azomethylene; RefChem:388924

Properties & Characteristics

Appearance: Diazomethane is a yellow gas with a musty odor that is shipped as a liquid under pressure. (NIOSH, 2024) Highly toxic by inhalation.. Molecular formula: CH2N2. Molecular weight: 42.040 g/mol. Boiling point: -9 °F at 760 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024). Melting point: -229 °F (NIOSH, 2024). Density: 1.45. Solubility: Reacts with water (NIOSH, 2024). Vapor pressure: greater than 1 atm (NIOSH, 2024). LogP: 1.6.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point-229 °F (NIOSH, 2024)
Boiling Point-9 °F at 760 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024)
Density1.45
Molecular Weight42.040
SolubilityReacts with water (NIOSH, 2024)
AppearanceDiazomethane is a yellow gas with a musty odor that is shipped as a liquid under pressure. (NIOSH, 2024) Highly toxic by inhalation.

Uses & Applications

Used as a synthetic reagent for transformations including oxidation, reduction, coupling, or functional group manipulation.

Safety Information

Hazardous reagent. May be toxic, corrosive, flammable, or reactive. Use in fume hood with full PPE. Consult SDS before use.

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

Key Facts

Term Diazomethane
Formula CH2N2
CAS Number 334-88-3
Molecular Weight 42.040
Synonyms Azimethylene; 334-88-3; Acomethylene; Methane, diazo-; Diazonium methylide; 60A625P70P; DTXSID0024008; CHEBI:73716; azomethylene; RefChem:388924

Frequently Asked Questions

Diazomethane is the simplest diazo compound, in which a diazo group is attached to a methylene group. It has a role as an alkylating agent, an antineoplastic agent, a carcinogenic agent and a poison.

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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.