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Here
are the details about phenol (CAS# 108-95-2):
Chemical Properties:
- Chemical Formula: C₆H₅OH
- Molecular Weight: 94.11 g/mol
- Structural Formula: C₆H₅OH
- IUPAC Name: Phenol
- Common Names: Carbolic acid,
Hydroxybenzene
Physical Properties:
- Appearance: Colorless to
white crystalline solid or liquid (depending on temperature)
- Odor: Sweet, medicinal odor
- Density: 1.07 g/cm³ (liquid),
1.31 g/cm³ (solid)
- Melting Point: 40.5°C
(solid), 41°C (liquid)
- Boiling Point: 181.7°C
- Solubility: Soluble in water,
ethanol, ether, chloroform; slightly soluble in benzene
Chemical Characteristics:
- Functional Group: Hydroxyl
(-OH) group attached to a benzene ring
- Acidity (pKa): ~10
- Basicity (pKb): ~4
- Reactivity: Can undergo
electrophilic substitution reactions due to the electron-donating nature
of the -OH group on the benzene ring.
Uses:
- Industrial: Used as a
precursor to various chemicals including plastics, pharmaceuticals, and
dyes.
- Antiseptic: Historically used
as a surgical antiseptic (carbolic acid).
- Disinfectant: Used in
disinfectants and germicides.
- Chemical Intermediates: Used
in the production of bisphenol A, caprolactam, and other industrial
chemicals.
Safety and Handling:
- Toxicity: Toxic if ingested,
inhaled, or absorbed through the skin; can cause severe burns and systemic
poisoning.
- Flammability: Combustible;
may emit toxic fumes when heated to decomposition.
- Storage: Store in a cool,
dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and flames.
Production:
- Synthesis: Produced
industrially by the cumene process, which involves the reaction of benzene
with propylene followed by oxidation.
- Yield: High yield process due
to efficient production methods.
Environmental Impact:
- Biodegradability: Phenol is
biodegradable, but its persistence and potential toxicity to aquatic
organisms warrant careful environmental management.
- Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic
life; proper handling and disposal practices are essential to minimize
environmental impact.
Phenol's
versatility in chemical reactions and its historical significance as an
antiseptic highlight its importance in various industries, though its toxicity
requires stringent safety measures during handling and disposal.
If you need further information
or have specific questions, feel free to ask!