What chemical is commonly used as a precursor in clandestine meth production?

The commonly used chemical as a precursor in clandestine methamphetamine production is red phosphorus. In the context of illicit drug manufacturing, red phosphorus plays a pivotal role in the conversion of certain legal compounds into methamphetamine. It is often used in combination with other chemicals to facilitate the synthesis process, particularly in methods that involve the reduction of ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, which are common starting materials found in over-the-counter medications.

Red phosphorus is valued in these clandestine operations due to its ability to react under specific conditions to effectively yield methamphetamine, thus making it a critical component of many meth labs. Additionally, its availability and less stringent regulations compared to other chemicals further contribute to its common usage in illegal settings.

The other listed chemicals do not serve as prominent precursors in meth production. Acetone, for example, is primarily utilized as a solvent in various applications but does not play a direct role in the synthesis of methamphetamine from precursor substances. Mineral oil and petroleum jelly, while they may have some uses in illicit drug manufacturing, are not key chemicals in the synthesis pathways associated with meth production. Therefore, red phosphorus stands out as the primary chemical associated with clandestine methamphetamine synthesis.