Differentiation of naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene mothballs based on their difference in specific gravity

Vet Hum Toxicol. 1991 Aug;33(4):313-4.

Abstract

The present study was conducted to measure the specific gravities of paradichlorobenzene and naphthalene mothballs and compare them with the specific gravity of a saturated aqueous solution of sodium chloride (1.197). The specific gravities of 450 paradichlorobenzene mothballs from 5 manufactures and 150 naphthalene mothballs from 2 manufactures were measured with a specific gravity meter. The mean specific gravities of paradichlorobenzene mothballs were between 1.429 and 1.437 (p = 0.99). On the other hand, the mean specific gravities of naphthalene mothballs were between 1.094 and 1.100 (p = 0.99). Based on the fact that paradichlorobenzene mothballs sink in a saturated solution of salt whereas naphthalene mothballs float on it, these 2 kinds of mothballs ought to be rapidly and accurately distinguished in clinical settings.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Chlorobenzenes / chemistry*
  • Naphthalenes / chemistry*
  • Sodium Chloride / chemistry
  • Solutions
  • Specific Gravity

Substances

  • Chlorobenzenes
  • Naphthalenes
  • Solutions
  • naphthalene
  • Sodium Chloride
  • 4-dichlorobenzene