dinitrobenzene

[ dahy-nahy-truh-ben-zeen, -ben-zeen ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. any of three isomeric benzene derivatives having the formula C 6 H 4 NO 2 , made by nitration of benzene or nitrobenzene, the most important of which is the meta form: used chiefly in the manufacture of dyes.

dinitrobenzene

/ daɪˌnaɪtrəʊˈbɛnziːn; -bɛnˈziːn /

noun

1. a yellow crystalline compound existing in three isomeric forms, obtained by reaction of benzene with nitric and sulphuric acids. The meta- form is used in the manufacture of dyes and plastics. Formula: C 6 H 4 (N0 2 ) 2

dinitrobenzene

/ dī-nī′trō-bĕn′zēn′ /

1. Any of three isomeric compounds made from a mixture of nitric acid, sulfuric acid, and heated benzene. Dinitrobenzenes are used in dyes, in synthesizing organic compounds, and in making celluloid. Chemical formula: C 6 H 4 N 2 O 4 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of dinitrobenzene¹

First recorded in 1870–75; di- ¹ + nitrobenzene