DDT: participation in ultraviolet-detectable, charge-transfer complexation

Science. 1971 Jan 15;171(3967):180-2. doi: 10.1126/science.171.3967.180.

Abstract

The chlorophenyl groups of DDT and several of its metabolites are capable of participating in a charge-transfer interaction with tetracyanoethylene detectable in the ultraviolet region of the spectrum. In addition, during a change of state DDT undergoes ultraviolet spectral alterations that closely resemble those previously claimed to support the hypothesis suggesting charge-transfer interaction between this pesticide and a component of insect nerve tissue. The pesticide DDT possesses structural characteristics that would permit it to participate in several types of molecular association.

MeSH terms

  • 1-Propanol
  • Animals
  • Chemical Phenomena
  • Chemistry, Physical
  • Cyanides*
  • DDT*
  • Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane
  • Electron Transport*
  • Ethylenes
  • Hydrocarbons, Halogenated*
  • Insecta
  • Nerve Tissue / metabolism
  • Solutions
  • Spectrophotometry
  • Ultraviolet Rays

Substances

  • Cyanides
  • Ethylenes
  • Hydrocarbons, Halogenated
  • Solutions
  • 1-Propanol
  • DDT
  • Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane