Acetone Formula
The chemical formula of acetone is C₃H₆O. It is most often written as (CH₃)₂CO, which shows its structure: a central carbonyl group (C=O) with a methyl group (CH₃) on each side. Acetone is the simplest ketone.
Acetone — key facts
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular formula | C₃H₆O |
| Condensed / structural formula | (CH₃)₂CO |
| IUPAC name | Propan-2-one (propanone) |
| Functional group | Ketone (carbonyl, C=O) |
| Molar mass | 58.08 g/mol |
| State at room temperature | Colourless, volatile liquid |
Structure and functional group
Acetone's carbon skeleton is three carbons: two methyl groups joined to a central carbon that carries a double-bonded oxygen (the carbonyl). Because the carbonyl sits between two carbon groups, acetone is a ketone — in fact the simplest one — and its IUPAC name is propan-2-one.
The molar mass follows from the formula: 3 carbons (3 × 12.01) + 6 hydrogens (6 × 1.008) + 1 oxygen (16.00) = 58.08 g/mol.
Common uses
Acetone is a widely used solvent — in nail-polish remover, paint thinner, and laboratories — because it dissolves many organic compounds and evaporates quickly. It also occurs naturally in the body in small amounts as a product of fat metabolism.
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Related concepts
Frequently asked questions
The molecular formula is C₃H₆O, commonly written (CH₃)₂CO.
Propan-2-one (also called propanone).
About 58.08 g/mol.