n-Propanol

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Identification

Molecular formula
C3H8O
CAS Number
71-23-8
IUPAC Name
propan-1-ol
Molecular Weight
60.10g/mol
Melting Point
(Celsius)
Boiling Point
(Celsius)
Density
0.8030g/cm3
Synonyms
1-propanol
Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Propan-1-ol

Propan-1-ol, commonly known as n-propanol, is a fascinating alcohol with various applications and characteristics that make it significant in both industrial and laboratory settings. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Versatile Solvent: Propan-1-ol is often used as a solvent in the formulation of paints, coatings, and inks due to its ability to dissolve a range of organic compounds and its relatively low toxicity.
  • Building Block for Chemical Synthesis: It serves as an important intermediate in the synthesis of various chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, plastics, and other alcohols.
  • Alcohol Properties: As a primary alcohol, propan-1-ol has a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the first carbon atom, influencing its reactivity and properties, such as its ability to engage in hydrogen bonding.
  • Biological Relevance: It occurs naturally in some fermentation processes and can be produced by the fermentation of sugars. This biological production makes it an interesting compound in the field of biochemistry and biofuels.
  • Safety Considerations: While it is generally considered less toxic compared to other alcohols, handling propan-1-ol requires standard safety precautions to avoid irritation and flammability risks.

As a key player in both laboratory research and industrial applications, propan-1-ol continues to be a subject of interest due to its **versatility** and **importance** in chemical synthesis. Whether as a solvent or a building block, its impact on science and industry is undeniable.

In the words of chemists, "Understanding the properties and applications of compounds like propan-1-ol allows us to harness their potential to drive innovation and sustainability in chemistry."

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