FAQ

1. Pharmaceuticals:
   • Drug Intermediate: Serves as a critical precursor in the synthesis of antibiotics, antifungals, and antiparasitic agents. Notably, it is used to produce metronidazole (Flagyl®) and dimetridazole, drugs effective against anaerobic bacteria and protozoal infections such as amebiasis, trichomoniasis, and giardiasis.
   • Antimicrobial Activity: Exhibits inherent antimicrobial properties, making it valuable in formulations targeting bacterial and parasitic pathogens.
2. Agriculture:
   • Pesticides and Fungicides: Employed in the manufacture of agricultural chemicals to enhance crop resistance to pests and diseases, thereby improving yield and quality.
3. Materials Science:
   • Functional Monomer: Acts as a monomer in polymer synthesis, introducing specific properties (e.g., enhanced mechanical strength, chemical resistance) into polymeric materials for industrial and technological applications.

Physicochemical Properties:

• Molecular Formula: C₄H₅N₃O₂
• Molecular Weight: 127.10 g/mol
• Melting Point: 252–254°C
• Boiling Point: 399.5 ± 15.0°C (at 760 mmHg)
• Density: 1.4 ± 0.1 g/cm³
• Appearance: White crystalline powder

Synthesis:
Produced via nitration of 2-methylimidazole using a mixture of concentrated nitric and sulfuric acids under controlled temperature conditions (0–5°C).

Safety and Handling:

• Toxicity: Potentially irritating; requires protective gear (gloves, goggles, lab coat) during handling.
• Environmental Precautions: Avoid release into water bodies due to potential ecological harm.
• Storage: Store in airtight, corrosion-resistant containers at 0–6°C in a cool, dry place.