What are other names for 1,2-Dibromoethane?
1,2-Dibromoethane is also known by several other names, including ethylene dibromide and EDB. It also has specific trade names like Bromofume and Dowfume.
Understanding 1,2-Dibromoethane
1,2-Dibromoethane, often abbreviated as EDB, is a halogenated hydrocarbon that was historically used extensively as a pesticide and lead scavenger in gasoline. Due to its environmental persistence and health concerns, its use has been largely restricted or banned in many countries. Understanding its various names is crucial for identifying it across different contexts, from chemical inventories to historical regulatory documents.
Common Synonyms and Trade Names
1,2-Dibromoethane has multiple aliases, arising from its chemical structure, common usage, and commercial branding. These names help distinguish it in various applications and professional fields.
Here is a breakdown of its common synonyms and trade names:
| Category | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Common Names | Ethylene dibromide | Reflects its derivation from ethylene and two bromine atoms. |
| Glycol bromide | Another systematic name referring to its structure. | |
| Abbreviations | EDB | A widely recognized short-form of ethylene dibromide. |
| Trade Names | Bromofume | A commercial product name for fumigant formulations. |
| Dowfume | Another commercial product name, indicating its manufacturer (Dow Chemical). |
These names are often used interchangeably depending on the context. For instance, ethylene dibromide is a more descriptive chemical name, while EDB is a common abbreviation found in environmental and regulatory discussions. Trade names like Bromofume and Dowfume refer to specific commercial products that contained 1,2-Dibromoethane as an active ingredient.
For more detailed information on its properties and uses, you can refer to reputable sources such as the CDC's Toxic Substances Portal.
Why Multiple Names?
The existence of multiple names for a single chemical substance is common in chemistry and industry. This often occurs for several reasons:
- Chemical Nomenclature: Systematic names are based on chemical structure (e.g., 1,2-Dibromoethane, Glycol bromide).
- Common Names: Simpler, more frequently used names that are easier to pronounce and remember (e.g., Ethylene dibromide).
- Abbreviations: Shortened forms for convenience, especially in scientific literature or regulatory documents (e.g., EDB).
- Trade Names: Proprietary names given by manufacturers for their commercial products (e.g., Bromofume, Dowfume). These names are often specific to certain formulations or historical uses.
Knowing these different names is essential for accurate communication, especially in fields like environmental science, toxicology, and public health, where precise identification of substances is critical.
