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Butylated hydroxytoluene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C15H24O
CAS number
128-37-0
IUPAC name
2-tert-butyl-5-methyl-phenol
State
State
Solid at room temperature.
Melting point (Celsius)
70.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
343.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
265.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
538.15
General information
Molecular weight
220.35g/mol
Molar mass
220.3520g/mol
Density
1.0480g/cm3
Appearence

Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a white crystalline solid at room temperature. It is known for its stability and antioxidant properties. Its crystalline form allows it to be easily handled and used in various applications.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-tert-butyl-5-methyl-phenol

2-tert-butyl-5-methyl-phenol, a substituted phenolic compound, exhibits notable solubility characteristics that are important to understand for its applications:

  • Solvent compatibility: This compound is generally more soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, or acetone compared to water.
  • Water solubility: Its solubility in water is limited, mainly due to the presence of the bulky tert-butyl group which hinders hydrogen bonding with water molecules.
  • pH effect: The solubility may also vary with pH; in alkaline conditions, it may partially ionize, increasing interactions with water molecules.

Overall, the solubility of 2-tert-butyl-5-methyl-phenol is a reflection of its molecular structure, balancing the hydrophobic tert-butyl group and the polar phenolic hydroxyl group:

  • Hydrophobic interactions: The large hydrocarbon portion opposes solubility in polar solvents.
  • Hydrophilic interactions: The phenolic hydroxyl can form hydrogen bonds but may be overshadowed by steric hindrance.

In conclusion, while 2-tert-butyl-5-methyl-phenol shows some capacity for solubility in organic media, its utility in aqueous solutions is limited due to its unique structural features.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 2-tert-butyl-5-methyl-phenol

2-tert-butyl-5-methyl-phenol, commonly known as BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), is a fascinating compound with a multitude of applications and characteristics. Here are some intriguing points about this compound:

  • Function as an Antioxidant: BHT is primarily known for its role as an antioxidant. It helps to prevent the oxidation of fats and oils, thereby extending the shelf life of food products.
  • Industrial Uses: Beyond food preservation, BHT is utilized in various industries. It is frequently found in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and rubber manufacturing due to its protective qualities.
  • Research on Health Effects: While BHT has been widely used, its safety has been the subject of research. Some studies suggest it may have potential health benefits, while others raise concerns about its effects on health and the environment.
  • Antimicrobial Properties: There is growing evidence that BHT can exhibit antimicrobial effects, making it valuable in preserving not only food but also personal care products and even certain pharmaceuticals.
  • Environmental Considerations: As with many synthetic compounds, there are environmental considerations related to BHT. Its biodegradability and effects on ecosystems are actively researched to ensure sustainable use.

In quotes, notable chemists have remarked, “The creativity of chemists opens new valleys of possibility within the molecular landscape.” This sentiment encapsulates the innovative use of compounds like BHT, demonstrating their versatility and importance in both scientific research and everyday products.

As a compound, 2-tert-butyl-5-methyl-phenol sparks curiosity not just for its applications, but also for the ongoing discussions about safety, efficacy, and environmental impact that are crucial in modern chemistry.

Synonyms
6-tert-Butyl-m-cresol
88-60-8
2-tert-Butyl-5-methylphenol
2-(tert-butyl)-5-methylphenol
6-tert-Butyl-3-methylphenol
5-Methyl-2-tert-butylphenol
Phenol, 2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-5-methyl-
3-Methyl-6-tert-butylphenol
m-Cresol, 6-tert-butyl-
2-tert-butyl-5-methyl-phenol
6-tert-Butyl-3-cresol
HSDB 5260
UNII-UXV32MJ2CA
2-t-Butyl-5-methylphenol
EINECS 201-842-3
NSC 48467
BRN 1908225
DTXSID2026529
Phenol, 2-tert-butyl-5-methyl-
Benzene, 1-tert-butyl-2-hydroxy-4-methyl-
2-(1,1-DIMETHYLETHYL)-5-METHYLPHENOL
MFCD00002308
NSC-48467
UXV32MJ2CA
5-Methyl-2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-phenol
DTXCID806529
EC 201-842-3
4-06-00-03400 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
2-(1,1-DIMETHYLETHYL)-5-METHYLPHENOL [HSDB]
CAS-88-60-8
6-t-butyl-m-cresol
6tertButylmcresol
NSC48467
mCresol, 6tertbutyl
6-t-butyl-3-cresol
2tertButyl5methylphenol
3Methyl6tertbutylphenol
5Methyl2tertbutylphenol
6tertButyl3methylphenol
3-methyl-6-t-butylphenol
SCHEMBL180815
GTPL4111
CHEMBL1880057
Benzene, 1tertbutyl2hydroxy4methyl
Phenol,1-dimethylethyl)-5-methyl-
Tox21_201418
Tox21_300486
2-tert-Butyl-5-methylphenol, 95%
Phenol, 2(1,1dimethylethyl)5methyl
AKOS000120129
NCGC00164216-01
NCGC00164216-02
NCGC00164216-03
NCGC00254288-01
NCGC00258969-01
BS-17803
FB158840
PD051571
DB-057088
B0718
CS-0037719
NS00003864
EN300-21368
W18665
Q27074017