Chloroacetophenone

/klɔːroʊəˌsɛtoʊˈfiːnoʊn/ noun

Definition

A white crystalline compound (2-chloroacetophenone) used in tear gas and self-defense sprays, producing intense eye and skin irritation.

Etymology

From chloro- (chlorine) + acetophenone (acetyl group + phenyl benzene ring), combining three molecular components.

Kelly Says

CN tear gas (chloroacetophenone) was developed as a less lethal weapon but became infamous during the Civil Rights era—it's a sobering example of how chemistry innovations meant for riot control can become tools of oppression.

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