BHC Full Form
What is the Full Form of BHC?
The full form of BHC is Benzene hexachloride. Benzene hexachloride is a significant chemical molecule with many uses but is potentially dangerous. Benzene hexachloride (BHC) is made of any of the several stereoisomers of 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane produced by the addition of chlorine to benzene under the influence of light. A pesticide with the name lindane, or Gammexane, is one of these isomers. The first preparation of benzene hexachloride took place in 1825. BHC was not known until 1944 that its insecticidal qualities were linked to the gamma-isomer, around 1,000 times more poisonous than the other diastereomers produced.
Formation of Benzene Hexachloride (BHC)
The organic compound benzene hexachloride has the formula C6H6Cl6. This colourless solid is one of the most significant chlorinated hydrocarbons. It has numerous uses as a precursor for insecticides, herbicides, and other agrochemicals.
When benzene is chlorinated, benzene hexachloride is produced:
3Cl2 + C6H6 → C6H6Cl6
Iron(III) chloride is commonly used as the catalyst in the process.
BHC is among the most significant chlorinated hydrocarbons. This solid is colourless. It can be used as a precursor for various agrochemicals, including insecticides, herbicides, and others. By pyrolyzing calcium chloride and benzene, Friedrich Woehler produced benzene hexachloride for the first time in 1825.
Uses of BHC
Benzene hexachloride has a variety of applications based on the desired effect. It can be applied as a disinfectant to clean surfaces and equipment or as an agricultural pesticide to prevent pests from eating crops. BHC can be used as a fumigant to exterminate rats and insects in small places. BHC degrades into a range of toxic chemicals when sprayed over water, plants, or soil, which can damage the environment.
Risks of BHC
Benzene hexachloride usage can harm health. High chemical concentrations in the air might make one feel dizzy, nauseous, and vomit. More severe health issues like liver damage, skin irritation, and nerve damage may result from prolonged exposure. Additionally harmful, ingesting BHC can result in stomach pain, diarrhoea, and even death. Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of chemical exposure because their smaller bodies allow them to absorb more of the substance through their skin or mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Avoiding contact with contaminated water or soil can prevent exposure to BHC. Wear safety gear and clothing if you must interact with or work with BHC. After exposure, always wash thoroughly.
Cells that are exposed to benzene are unable to function properly. For instance, it might prevent the bone marrow from producing enough red blood cells, resulting in anaemia. Additionally, it can weaken the immune system by altering blood antibody levels and reducing white blood cell production.
Pollutant Benzene hexachloride (BHC) is a non-biodegradable substance.
In forestry, benzene hexachloride is used to treat seeds and as an insecticide on crops.
Technically speaking, the livers of mice and rats a, BHC is carcinogenic and also its alpha, beta, gamma, and delta isomers too.