Starting Material for Nitroglycerin and Anaesthetic Ether

Which of the following is a starting material in the synthesis of nitroglycerin?

a. ethylene glycol

b. 1,2-propanediol

c. 1,3-propanediol

d. 1,2,3-propanetriol

Which of the following ethers was frequently used in the past as an anesthetic?

a. diethyl ether

b. dimethyl ether

c. ethyl methyl ether

d. ethyl propyl ether

Answers:

Starting material in the synthesis of nitroglycerin: 1,3-propanediol

Anaesthetic Ether: diethyl ether

In the synthesis of nitroglycerin, 1,3-propanediol is used as a starting material. This compound undergoes various chemical reactions to produce nitroglycerin, which is a powerful explosive and vasodilator.

Diethyl ether, also known as ethoxyethane, was historically used as an anaesthetic due to its ability to induce unconsciousness and provide pain relief. However, it has been largely replaced by safer and more effective anaesthetics in modern medical practice.

1,3-propanediol is the correct starting material for synthesising nitroglycerin, while diethyl ether was frequently used in the past as an anaesthetic. These compounds have played significant roles in their respective applications, contributing to advancements in explosives and medical practices.