Production and Structure
Sarin is a chiral molecule (typically racemic), with four substituents attached to the tetrahedral phosphorus center. The SP form (shown) is the more active enantiomer due to its greater binding to acetylcholinesterase. It is prepared from methylphosphonyl difluoride and a mixture of isopropyl alcohol.
- CH3P(O)F2 + (CH3)2CHOH → CH3P(O)F + HF
Isopropylamine is added to neutralize the hydrogen fluoride generated during this alcoholysis reaction. As a binary chemical weapon, it can be generated in situ by this same reaction.
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