Understanding the precise chemical and physical properties of a compound is fundamental to its successful application in synthesis and manufacturing. 3-Bromo-5-chloropicolinonitrile, a key organic synthesis intermediate, possesses a unique set of characteristics that make it valuable across various scientific disciplines. This pale yellow solid, identified by its CAS number 760207-83-8, is more than just a chemical formula; it's a carefully structured molecule designed for reactivity and utility.

Physically, 3-Bromo-5-chloropicolinonitrile is described as a pale yellow solid. This visual characteristic is often the first indicator of its physical state under standard conditions. Its density is approximately 1.9 g/cm³, suggesting a relatively compact molecular packing. The compound exhibits a boiling point of around 297.5 °C at 760 mmHg, indicating good thermal stability under typical atmospheric pressure but also requiring careful handling at elevated temperatures. Its flash point, around 133.7 °C, points to a moderate flammability risk, necessitating appropriate safety precautions during its use and storage, such as working in well-ventilated areas.

Chemically, the structure of 3-Bromo-5-chloropicolinonitrile is central to its function. It features a pyridine ring, which is a six-membered heterocyclic aromatic ring containing one nitrogen atom. This core structure is substituted with a bromine atom at the 3-position, a chlorine atom at the 5-position, and a nitrile group (-C≡N) at the 2-position. The presence of these electron-withdrawing and reactive groups significantly influences the molecule's electronic distribution and reactivity. The halogens (bromine and chlorine) are known for their utility in various coupling reactions, such as palladium-catalyzed cross-couplings, which are vital for constructing complex organic molecules. The nitrile group offers further avenues for functionalization, being convertible into amines, carboxylic acids, or other nitrogen-containing functionalities.

These properties combined, including its high purity often reaching ≥99.0%, make 3-Bromo-5-chloropicolinonitrile a sought-after building block for chemists involved in pharmaceutical synthesis, agrochemical development, and other areas of fine chemical manufacturing. Its well-defined characteristics ensure predictability and reliability in synthetic processes.