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Cymene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C10H14
CAS number
99-87-6
IUPAC name
1-isopropyl-2,4-dimethyl-benzene
State
State

At room temperature, cymene is a liquid.

Melting point (Celsius)
-68.93
Melting point (Kelvin)
204.22
Boiling point (Celsius)
177.10
Boiling point (Kelvin)
450.25
General information
Molecular weight
134.22g/mol
Molar mass
134.2200g/mol
Density
0.8573g/cm3
Appearence

Cymene is characterized by a clear, colorless, and slightly viscous liquid form with an aromatic odor reminiscent of turpentine. It is not soluble in water but miscible with organic solvents.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 1-isopropyl-2,4-dimethyl-benzene (C10H14)

1-isopropyl-2,4-dimethyl-benzene, commonly referred to as p-cymene, exhibits a range of solubility characteristics primarily governed by its chemical structure. Its solubility in various solvents can be summarized as follows:

  • Nonpolar Solvents: This compound is essentially insoluble in water due to its nonpolar nature, which arises from the hydrocarbon chain and aromatic ring. Instead, it displays good solubility in nonpolar organic solvents such as hexane and toluene.
  • Polar Solvents: In polar solvents, such as water, the solubility is extremely low. This is typical for hydrocarbons, where the polar-water molecules cannot effectively interact with the nonpolar structure of p-cymene.
  • Temperature Influence: Solubility can increase with temperature, which often leads to better dissolution profiles in organic solvents.

Understanding the solubility of p-cymene is essential for applications in both industrial processes and in the formulation of products that utilize this aromatic hydrocarbon. As a general observation, it’s quoted that, “Like dissolves like.” Therefore, the behavior of 1-isopropyl-2,4-dimethyl-benzene in solvents showcases this fundamental principle of solubility.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 1-Isopropyl-2,4-dimethyl-benzene

1-Isopropyl-2,4-dimethyl-benzene, also known as p-cymene, is an intriguing organic compound that belongs to the class of compounds known as alkyl-substituted aromatic hydrocarbons. Here are some fascinating aspects of this compound:

  • Natural Occurrence: P-cymene is found naturally in various plant sources, particularly in essential oils. Common sources include thyme, cumin, and coriander. Its presence in these plants contributes to their characteristic aroma and flavor.
  • Applications in Industry: This compound is not just a relatively simple aromatic compound; it has significant applications. P-cymene is utilized as a solvent and a precursor in the synthesis of other valuable chemicals, including pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
  • Biological Activity: Research has highlighted several biological activities associated with p-cymene, including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. These characteristics make it of interest in fields like pharmacology and food preservation.
  • Marketability: The pleasing scent of p-cymene has garnered it a place in the fragrance industry, where it is used to create various perfumes and scented products.
  • Unique History: The compound was first isolated from the oil of the cumin seed and has since been extensively studied for its chemical properties and potential uses since the early 20th century.

For chemists and enthusiasts alike, the study of 1-isopropyl-2,4-dimethyl-benzene represents a fascinating intersection of nature and synthetic chemistry, bringing together insights from botany, pharmacology, and industrial applications. As we continue to explore its rich properties and potential, p-cymene remains a valuable compound in both academic research and commercial usage.

Synonyms
Benzene, 2,4-dimethyl-1-(1-methylethyl)-
4706-89-2
1-Isopropyl-2,4-dimethylbenzene
2,4-dimethyl-1-propan-2-ylbenzene
Cumene, 2,4-dimethyl-
2,4-Dimethyl-1-(1-methylethyl)-benzene
4-Isopropyl-m-xylene
1.5-Dimethyl-2-isopropylbenzol
DTXSID6075065
CHEBI:88567
1,3-Dimethyl-4-isopropylbenzene
4-Isopropyl-1,3-dimethylbenzene
Benzene, 1,3-dimethyl-4-(1-methylethyl)
DB-250437
Q27160458