The] synthesis of C14 labeled DDT.

• Main Author: Macdonald, Roderick.
• Other Authors: Baker, B. (Supervisor)
• Format: Others
• Language: en
• Published: McGill University 1952
• Subjects: Agricultural Chemistry.
• Online Access: http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=123956

The insecticidal value of l,l,l-trichloro-2, 2-bis (p-chlorophenyl) ethane (DDT) was discovered in 1944. Since its introduction as an insecticide, DDT bas become very well known as a pest control in various parts of the world. The popularity ot DDT was greatly enhanced by the demands of the armed forces during the second World war. The introduction ot DDT resulted in a large number of studies on the toxicity of this insecticide to animals as well as to insects. Despite many intensified studies on the toxicity of DDT, its fate in the insect body has never been completely described. Several theories have been proposed to explain the mode of action of DDT in the insect. Most of these theories have been contradicted and none have been entirely satisfactory. Early workers attributed the toxiciy of DDT to certain structural groups in the molecule. Recent workers consider the size and shape of the molecule more important. An intensive study of the action of DDT on insects bas been undertaken by the Entomology Department at Macdonald College. It vas decided to use C14 labeled DDT in the following studies:- (a) Penetration of DDT into the integuement of the insect, (b) Translocation of DDT in the insect body, (c) Determination of the organs affected by the insecticide. With this end in mind radioactive DDT was prepared. The active molecule contained C14 at the point of attachment of the two p-chlorophenyl rings. [...]