What Is Nitro?
Nitro refers to a functional group commonly found in organic compounds. This group is also known as the nitro group and broadly includes nitrate esters (R-ON2). Organic compounds like nitroglycerin (specific formula: C3H5(ONO2)3) and nitrocellulose fall under nitrate esters. Trinitrotoluene (TNT, C6H2CH3(ON2)3), an explosive material, is synthesized by substituting three hydrogen atoms in the phenyl ring of toluene (C6H5CH3).
Uses of Nitro
Nitro compounds have several significant applications, particularly in the fields of explosives and pharmaceuticals. In medical applications, nitro compounds like nitroglycerin are used due to their vasorelaxant effects, which widen blood vessels and are effective in treating angina attacks. Nitroglycerin is commonly administered as a sublingual tablet for angina pectoris.
In the realm of explosives, nitro compounds play a crucial role. Alfred Nobel, the founder of the Nobel Prize, notably invented dynamite, a safer explosive utilizing nitro compounds. Additionally, nitro compounds are used in the manufacture of smokeless gunpowder.