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ethylmethylbenzene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C9H12
CAS number
620-14-4
IUPAC name
1-ethyl-2-methyl-benzene;1-ethyl-3-methyl-benzene;1-ethyl-4-methyl-benzene
State
State

At room temperature, ethylmethylbenzene is typically a liquid. This applies to all three isomers, and due to the presence of its aromatic ring, it tends to be less volatile compared to non-aromatic hydrocarbons of similar molecular weight.

Melting point (Celsius)
-33.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
240.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
182.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
455.15
General information
Molecular weight
120.19g/mol
Molar mass
120.1930g/mol
Density
0.8661g/cm3
Appearence

Ethylmethylbenzene refers to three isomers that are colorless liquids. These include 1-ethyl-2-methylbenzene, 1-ethyl-3-methylbenzene, and 1-ethyl-4-methylbenzene. These isomers usually do not have a noticeable color and have a distinct aromatic odor, characteristic of aromatic hydrocarbons.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 1-Ethyl-2-methyl-benzene, 1-Ethyl-3-methyl-benzene, and 1-Ethyl-4-methyl-benzene

The solubility of the compounds 1-ethyl-2-methyl-benzene (C10H12), 1-ethyl-3-methyl-benzene (C10H12), and 1-ethyl-4-methyl-benzene (C10H12), which are all isomers of ethyl-methylbenzene, exhibits some fascinating characteristics.

These compounds are organic solvents known for their relatively low solubility in water due to their non-polar nature. Consider the following points regarding their solubility:

  • Non-polar Solubility: As non-polar compounds, they tend to dissolve well in non-polar solvents (e.g., hexane) rather than in polar solvents like water.
  • Temperature Dependency: Their solubility can increase with temperature, which is typical for many organic compounds. With rising temperature, the kinetic energy promotes interaction with surrounding solvent molecules.
  • Hydrophobic Character: They exhibit hydrophobic characteristics that make them less inclined to interact with water molecules, contributing to their low solubility in aqueous solutions.

In summary, while the 1-ethyl-2-methyl-benzene, 1-ethyl-3-methyl-benzene, and 1-ethyl-4-methyl-benzene compounds are valuable in a variety of chemical processes, their limited solubility in water highlights their utility as organic solvents in diverse applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 1-Ethyl-2-methyl-benzene, 1-Ethyl-3-methyl-benzene, and 1-Ethyl-4-methyl-benzene

1-Ethyl-2-methyl-benzene, 1-Ethyl-3-methyl-benzene, and 1-Ethyl-4-methyl-benzene are fascinating compounds that fall under the category of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Known collectively for their unique structural features, these isomers exhibit intriguing properties and applications in various fields.

Chemical Structure and Properties

All three compounds share a common ethyl and methyl substituents on a benzene ring, leading to varying physical and chemical characteristics:

  • Positional Isomers: The different positions of the methyl group relative to the ethyl group yield distinct isomers, affecting their reactivity and interaction patterns.
  • Versatile Solvents: These compounds are often utilized as solvents in industrial applications due to their ability to dissolve a wide range of organic substances.
  • Precursor Compounds: They serve as important starting materials in the synthesis of various chemical compounds, acting as building blocks for larger, more complex molecules.

Applications and Importance

The relevance of these compounds stretches across multiple industries:

  • Pharmaceuticals: They are involved in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates and agrochemicals.
  • Polymer Production: Utilized in the production of polymers and resin formulations, contributing to the creation of advanced materials.
  • Research: These compounds are often studied in organic chemistry for their interesting reaction mechanisms and their role in the development of aromatic compounds.

Aesthetic and Environmental Considerations

While these compounds have significant industrial advantages, it's essential to consider their environmental impact:

  • Toxicity and Pollution: Many polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are known to exhibit toxic effects, and strict regulations govern their handling and use in industrial settings.
  • Green Chemistry: Researchers are increasingly focused on finding greener alternatives or processes to minimize the environmental footprints associated with these compounds.

In conclusion, 1-Ethyl-2-methyl-benzene, 1-Ethyl-3-methyl-benzene, and 1-Ethyl-4-methyl-benzene are much more than mere organic compounds; they embody a blend of chemical intrigue and practical significance that continue to inspire ongoing research and development in the field of chemistry.

Synonyms
SCHEMBL377006