Parathion
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Description
A highly toxic organic phosphate insecticide. Parathion was introduced in 1947. The pale yellow liquid acts as a cholinesterase inhibitor. It interrupts the function of the central nervous system and causes death by respiratory failure.
Synonyms and Related Terms
O,O-diethyl-O,p-nitrophenyl phosphorothioate; ethyl parathion; O,O-diethyl-p-nitrophenyl thiophosphate; AATP; Niran; Penncap-E
Other Properties
Soluble in ester, alcohols, ketones, ethers, aromatic hydrocarbons, oils. Slightly soluble in water. Insoluble in petroleum ether, kerosene.
| Composition | (C2H5O)2P(S)OC6H4NO2 |
|---|---|
| CAS | 56-38-2 |
| Melting Point | 6 |
| Density | 1.26 |
| Molecular Weight | mol. wt. = 291.27 |
| Refractive Index | 1.5367 |
| Boiling Point | 375 |
Hazards and Safety
Highly toxic by skin contact, inhalation or ingestion.
Flammable. Flash point = 120-160 C.
LINK: International Chemical Safety Card
Sources Checked for Data in Record
- Encyclopedia Britannica, http://www.britannica.com Comment: eb www.britannica.com article?idxref= parathion" [Accessed March 26, 2002].
- The Merck Index, Martha Windholz (ed.), Merck Research Labs, Rahway NJ, 10th edition, 1983 Comment: entry 6897
- Encyclopedia Britannica, http://www.britannica.com Comment: www.britannica.com "parathion" [Accessed March 26, 2002].