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PCMX (para-Chloro-meta-xylenol)

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Identification
Molecular formula
C13H11ClO
CAS number
872-50-4
IUPAC name
1-chloro-4-(phenoxymethyl)benzene
State
State

At room temperature, PCMX is typically in a solid state.

Melting point (Celsius)
36.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
309.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
281.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
554.15
General information
Molecular weight
218.68g/mol
Molar mass
218.6600g/mol
Density
1.2130g/cm3
Appearence

PCMX typically appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is known for its antiseptic properties and is often used in disinfectants and soaps. In its pure form, it is a solid that is not very volatile.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 1-chloro-4-(phenoxymethyl)benzene

The solubility of 1-chloro-4-(phenoxymethyl)benzene can be characterized by several factors that influence its behavior in various solvents.

  • Polarity: This compound has a polar chloro group which can interact with polar solvents, but its overall structure is largely hydrophobic due to the benzene rings, influencing its solubility.
  • Solvent Type: Generally, 1-chloro-4-(phenoxymethyl)benzene is more soluble in organic solvents such as:
    • Ethyl acetate
    • Chloroform
    • Toluene
  • Water Solubility: With a considerable hydrophobic character, its solubility in water is likely to be very low.

In practice, it is important to consider the solubility context. The compound is expected to dissolve satisfactorily in non-polar to slightly polar solvents, while exhibiting limited to no solubility in highly polar solvents such as water. As with many organic compounds, factors such as temperature and molecular interactions can further influence the solubility behavior.

As a rule of thumb, “like dissolves like” applies, thus making the choice of solvent critical when working with 1-chloro-4-(phenoxymethyl)benzene.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 1-Chloro-4-(phenoxymethyl)benzene

1-Chloro-4-(phenoxymethyl)benzene, often referred to simply as this compound, belongs to a class of chemicals that includes aromatic compounds with halogen substituents. Here are some intriguing aspects to consider:

  • Structural Characteristics: The compound features a benzene ring with a chlorine atom and a phenoxymethyl group attached at specific positions. This unique structure can lead to diverse chemical reactivity compared to simpler benzene derivatives.
  • Synthesis: The synthesis of 1-chloro-4-(phenoxymethyl)benzene can be achieved through electrophilic aromatic substitution methods, often highlighting the reactivity patterns seen in aromatic systems.
  • Applications:
    • It can be used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, enhancing its importance in chemical industries.
    • Furthermore, its phenoxy group may impart interesting properties, making it a candidate for producing compounds with desirable biological activities.
  • Biological Studies: As with many halogenated compounds, there is a growing interest in studying the biological effects and potential toxicity of 1-chloro-4-(phenoxymethyl)benzene, especially in relation to its pharmacological properties.
  • Environmental Impact: The environmental persistence and potential ecological impacts of chlorinated compounds are critical areas of study, especially considering the regulatory frameworks surrounding chemical safety.

This compound exemplifies how slight modifications in molecular structure can lead to significant changes in function and utility. As scientists delve deeper into its properties, the potential for new discoveries remains vast. “Chemistry is the science of transformation,” and 1-chloro-4-(phenoxymethyl)benzene is indeed a fascinating contributor to this ongoing narrative.

Synonyms
P-CHLOROBENZYL PHENYL ETHER
Benzene, 1-chloro-4-(phenoxymethyl)-
4-chlorobenzyl phenyl ether
19962-25-5
Ether, p-chlorobenzyl phenyl
(4-Chlorobenzyloxy)benzene
UNII-CP4609XW5I
CP4609XW5I
HSDB 2836
DTXSID30173756
ETHER, P-CHLOROBENZYL PHENYL [HSDB]
Ether, pchlorobenzyl phenyl
DTXCID8096247
Benzene, 1chloro4(phenoxymethyl)
RefChem:169297
SCHEMBL696444
SCHEMBL921156
SCHEMBL1907545
SCHEMBL5441069
SCHEMBL9653611
LKFFIBFCNOEEAU-UHFFFAOYSA-N
AKOS002959495
Q27275594