Overview

Gamma-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane (GAM-uh one two three four five six HEK-sa-KLOR-oh-SYE-kloh-HEK-sane) exists in four isomeric forms. Isomers are two or more forms of a chemical compound with the same molecular formula, but different structural formulas and different chemical and physical properties. The isomer of greatest commercial interest is called the gamma (γ) isomer and is also known as lindane. It is sold commercially in more than a hundred commercial products under trade names such as 666, Africide, Agrocide, Aparasin, Arbitex, Ben-Hex, Bentox, Devoran, Entomoxan, Exagamma, Forlin, Gamaphex, Gammalin, Gammex, Gexane, Hexachloran, Isotox, Jacutin, Kwell, Lindafor, Lindatox, Lin-O-Sol, Lintox, Streunex, Tri-6, and Vitron.

Key Facts

Other Names:

Benzene hexachloride; BHC; HCCH; HCH; TBH

Formula:

C₆H₆Cl₆

Elements:

Carbon, hydrogen, chlorine

Compound Type:

Chlorinated aromatic hydrocarbon (organic)

State:

Solid

Molecular Weight:

290.83 g/mol

Melting Point:

112.5°C (234.5°F)

Boiling Point:

323.4°C (614.1°F)

Solubility:

Insoluble in water; soluble in absolute alcohol...