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2-Butylphenol

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Identification
Molecular formula
C10H14O
CAS number
88-18-6
IUPAC name
2-butylphenol
State
State

2-Butylphenol is typically a liquid at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
0.95
Melting point (Kelvin)
274.10
Boiling point (Celsius)
234.60
Boiling point (Kelvin)
507.75
General information
Molecular weight
136.19g/mol
Molar mass
136.1920g/mol
Density
0.9380g/cm3
Appearence

2-Butylphenol appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic phenolic odor. It is typically transparent and may appear oily in nature.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-butylphenol

2-butylphenol, a compound composed of a butyl group attached to a phenolic ring, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics. In general, the solubility of phenolic compounds is affected by both their molecular structure and the presence of functional groups.

  • Solubility in Water: 2-butylphenol has limited solubility in water due to the hydrophobic nature of the butyl side chain. Phenolic compounds often possess a moderate capacity to engage in hydrogen bonding, yet the nonpolar butyl group reduces its affinity for water.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: In contrast, 2-butylphenol is well-soluble in many organic solvents such as:
    • Ether
    • Alcohols
    • Aromatic solvents

Given its structure, 2-butylphenol can be described as having a **hydrophobic** character that drives its solubility in organic media while limiting its interaction with polar solvents. This behavior is often a characteristic trait of alkyl-substituted phenols, where the variation in hydrocarbon chain length and branching can significantly influence solubility attributes. As a general rule, “the larger the alkyl group, the less soluble the phenol will be in water.”

Thus, while 2-butylphenol does not dissolve well in water, it demonstrates a robust compatibility with a variety of organic solvents, making it useful for various applications in organic synthesis and industrial processes.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 2-Butylphenol

2-Butylphenol, a member of the phenolic compound family, has diverse applications that make it an intriguing subject of study in chemistry. Here are some captivating aspects of this compound:

  • Structure and Functionality: The presence of a butyl group attached to a phenol ring significantly influences the chemical properties and reactivity of 2-butylphenol. Its unique structure allows it to effectively function as an organic intermediate in various chemical reactions.
  • Industrial Applications: 2-Butylphenol is widely utilized in the production of resins and plastics, showcasing its importance in the manufacturing sector. These applications highlight its value in creating durable materials used across multiple industries.
  • Biological Relevance: Studies have shown that phenolic compounds like 2-butylphenol can exhibit antimicrobial properties. This has led researchers to explore its potential in medicinal chemistry, particularly in developing new antibacterial agents.
  • Environmental Considerations: As with many organic compounds, the environmental fate of 2-butylphenol is a topic of interest. Understanding how it behaves in different environmental matrices is crucial for evaluating its impact and developing appropriate safety guidelines.
  • Synonymous Names: Often, 2-butylphenol is referred to as 4-butylphenol or para-butylphenol, depending on the context. This highlights the importance of nomenclature in chemistry, as it can influence the understanding and communication of chemical identities.

In conclusion, 2-butylphenol is not just a simple compound but a foundation for various applications and a subject for ongoing research. Its intriguing balance of practical use and biological properties makes it a fascinating focus for chemists and students alike. As a reminder, in the words of a noted chemist, "Every compound tells a story; it's up to us to decode it."

Synonyms
2-BUTYLPHENOL
o-Butylphenol
I1WS5HQ96Y
NSC 60291
NSC-60291
UNII-I1WS5HQ96Y
BRN 2246561
AI3-22445
DTXSID0062898
UN 2228
UN 2229
4-06-00-03267 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
DTXCID9038426
gjycvcvhrswlny-uhfffaoysa-n
Butylphenol
Phenol, 2-butyl-
Phenol, o-butyl-
3180-09-4
2-n-Butylphenol
1-Hydroxy-2-n-butylbenzene
28805-86-9
Phenol, butyl-
butyl phenol
o-n-butylphenol
2-butyl-phenol
Dyclonine Impurity 11
WLN: QR B4
SCHEMBL20232
NSC60291
AKOS006370677
NS00050566
EN300-189786
A1-38812
Q27280263