Acetonitrile major species present when dissolved in water

Acetonitrile refers to the chemical compound exhibiting the formula CH₃CN. It is the basic organic nitrile and a colorless liquid. It is generated primarily as a byproduct of acrylonitrile production. It is used as a polar aprotic solvent in the purification of butadiene and in organic synthesis.

The addition of water to cyanides generates amines and acids. Acetonitrile produces ammonia and acetic acid.

CH₃CN (acetonitrile) → CH₃COOH (acetic acid) + NH₃ (ammonia)