What is the Difference Between Alkyl Nitrite and Nitro Alkane?

Alkyl nitrite and nitro alkane are two distinct types of organic compounds that may sound similar but have different structures and properties:

1. Alkyl Nitrite: In this compound, the alkyl group is bonded to an oxygen atom. Alkyl nitrites are considered as alkyl esters of nitrous acid and are formed when nitrous acid reacts with alcohols. An example of an alkyl nitrite is ethyl nitrite (C2H5ONO).
2. Nitro Alkane: In nitro alkanes, the alkyl group binds with the nitrogen atom. Nitro alkanes are better regarded as nitro derivatives of alkanes and are formed when nitrous acid reacts with alkanes. Nitro alkanes are colorless, pleasant-smelling liquids that are sparingly soluble in water but readily soluble in organic solvents. Their boiling points are much higher than isomeric alkyl nitrites due to their polar nature.

Some key differences between alkyl nitrites and nitro alkanes include:

• Alkyl nitrites produce alcohols when reduced, while nitro alkanes produce amines.
• Nitro alkanes do not get hydrolyzed in basic conditions, while nitrites produce alcohols.

In summary, although alkyl nitrites and nitro alkanes both contain a nitro group and an alkyl group, they differ in the position where the two groups are attached to each other, resulting in distinct structures and properties.

Comparative Table: Alkyl Nitrite vs Nitro Alkane

The main difference between alkyl nitrite and nitro alkane lies in the bonding of the alkyl group and the nitro group. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences:

In summary, alkyl nitrites have a fruity odor and are produced from alcohols and sodium nitrite, while nitro alkanes have a distinctive odor and are produced via free radical nitration of alkanes. The key difference lies in the bonding of the alkyl group and the nitro group in these compounds.