Butachlor is a selective pre-emergent herbicide commonly used in agriculture to control grassy weeds and some broadleaf weeds in crops such as rice, corn, soybeans, and sugarcane. Here are some properties of butachlor:

1. Chemical Formula: The chemical formula of butachlor is C17H26ClNO2.

2. Physical State: Butachlor is a light yellow to amber-colored liquid at room temperature.

3. Solubility: Butachlor is sparingly soluble in water, but it is highly soluble in organic solvents such as acetone, ethanol, and xylene.

4. Persistence: Butachlor has a moderate persistence in the environment. It can undergo degradation through chemical processes, microbial activity, and photodegradation under sunlight. The persistence of butachlor can depend on various factors such as soil conditions and climate.

5. Mode of Action: Butachlor works primarily by inhibiting the growth of weeds during the early stages of their development. It interferes with the biosynthesis of lipids in susceptible weed species, leading to inhibition of cell division and plant growth.

6. Selectivity: Butachlor is selective to certain crops and targets mainly grassy weeds. It is designed to be applied pre-emergence, meaning it is applied to the soil before the target weeds germinate. This allows the herbicide to act on the weeds while minimizing damage to the crops.

7. Application: Butachlor is typically applied as an emulsifiable concentrate or an oil dispersion formulation. It can be sprayed directly onto the soil surface or incorporated into the soil before planting the crop. The timing and method of application depend on the specific crop and weed species being targeted.

8. Safety: Butachlor is classified as a moderately hazardous pesticide. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines when handling and applying butachlor. Personal protective equipment, such as gloves, protective clothing, and respiratory protection, should be worn during handling and application to minimize exposure.