Benzene (C6H6) is a colorless, aromatic
hydrocarbon that is highly flammable and has a sweet odor. Here are some
details about benzene:
1. Chemical Formula: C6H6
2. CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) Number:
71-43-2
3. Molecular Weight: Approximately 78.11
g/mol
4. Physical Properties:
-
Appearance: Benzene is a clear, colorless liquid at room temperature, although
it can also exist as a vapor.
-
Odor: It has a characteristic sweet odor, which can be detected at low
concentrations.
-
Density: Approximately 0.88 g/cm³ at 20°C (68°F).
-
Melting Point: 5.5°C (41.9°F)
-
Boiling Point: 80.1°C (176.2°F)
-
Solubility: Benzene is sparingly soluble in water but highly soluble in organic
solvents.
5. Chemical Properties:
-
Benzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon, meaning it contains a ring of six carbon
atoms with alternating single and double bonds.
- It
is a highly stable molecule due to its aromaticity, which imparts resistance to
addition reactions.
-
Benzene undergoes substitution reactions rather than addition reactions due to
the stability of its aromatic ring.
- It
can react with electrophiles to form substituted benzene derivatives, such as
nitrobenzene, chlorobenzene, and phenol.
6. Production:
-
Benzene is produced primarily as a byproduct of petroleum refining and coal tar
distillation.
- It
can also be synthesized from other aromatic compounds through various chemical
processes, including hydrodealkylation and alkylation.
7. Uses:
-
Chemical Intermediates: Benzene is a key raw material in the production of
various chemicals, including ethylbenzene, cumene, cyclohexane, and styrene,
which are used in the manufacture of plastics, synthetic fibers, rubber, and
pharmaceuticals.
-
Solvent: It is used as a solvent in various industrial processes, including
paint, varnish, and adhesive production, as well as in laboratory settings for
extraction and purification.
-
Fuel Additive: Benzene is a component of gasoline and other fuels, where it
serves as a high-octane blending agent to improve engine performance.
-
Laboratory Reagent: It is used as a laboratory reagent and standard for
analytical methods, particularly in spectroscopy and chromatography.
-
Intermediate in Organic Synthesis: Benzene serves as an intermediate in the
synthesis of a wide range of organic compounds, including dyes,
pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals.
8. Health and Safety:
-
Benzene is carcinogenic and toxic to humans, with long-term exposure linked to
various health effects, including leukemia, bone marrow damage, and aplastic
anemia.
-
Inhalation of benzene vapors can cause dizziness, headache, nausea, and
respiratory irritation, while prolonged exposure may lead to more severe health
problems.
-
Benzene is highly flammable and poses a fire and explosion hazard. Proper
handling, storage, and safety precautions should be followed to minimize risks.
Benzene is a widely used chemical with significant industrial importance, but its toxicity and carcinogenicity require strict safety measures to mitigate health and environmental risks associated with its handling and usage.
If you need further information or have specific questions, feel free to ask!