Sulfone

Sulfones ( sg: sulfone ) are a class of compounds with organically bound sulfur and oxygen, with the general formula: R1 -S ( = O) 2 -R2, while R1 and R2 are organic radicals. The singular sulfone is often used as a common name for the dimethyl (R = R ' = CH3). Dimethyl sulfone is an example of a symmetric sulfone ( R1 = R2). For unsymmetrical sulfones applies: R1 ≠ R2. In nature sulfones have only a minor role.

Representation

Sulfones can be industrially and win by oxidation of thioethers, such as hydrogen peroxide, potassium permanganate or other oxidizing agents in the laboratory. The corresponding sulfoxides are intermediates.

Properties

Sulfones are semi-volatile and polar compounds, they are usually at room temperature solids. Sulfones are chemically quite stable and are difficult to oxidize and reduce quite heavy. Hydrogens on the α -position carbon of acidic by - M effect of the sulfone group.

Uses

Some sulfones are as drugs in use, such as the drug dapsone (4,4 ' -diaminodiphenyl sulfone ) or sulphonal.