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α-Methylstyrene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C9H10
CAS number
98-83-9
IUPAC name
isopropenylbenzene
State
State

α-Methylstyrene is a liquid at room temperature. It is often used in the manufacturing of resins and plastics, where it may polymerize, affecting its physical properties.

Melting point (Celsius)
-23.10
Melting point (Kelvin)
250.05
Boiling point (Celsius)
164.90
Boiling point (Kelvin)
438.05
General information
Molecular weight
118.20g/mol
Molar mass
118.1950g/mol
Density
0.9138g/cm3
Appearence

α-Methylstyrene is typically a colorless liquid with an aromatic odor. It can sometimes appear slightly yellowish due to impurities. This compound is generally a clear liquid at room temperature.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Isopropenylbenzene

Isopropenylbenzene, also known as allylbenzene, is an organic compound that presents intriguing solubility characteristics. Its solubility is primarily influenced by the following factors:

  • Polarity: Isopropenylbenzene is non-polar due to its hydrocarbon structure. This results in its limited solubility in polar solvents.

  • Solvent Compatibility: It demonstrates good solubility in non-polar solvents such as hexane and benzene, making it ideal for reactions in organic synthesis where such solvents are used.

  • Temperature: Generally, as the temperature increases, solubility in non-polar solvents also tends to increase, enhancing the compound's dispersal in the solvent matrix.

In terms of water solubility, isopropenylbenzene is considered insoluble. The presence of the aromatic ring significantly limits its ability to mix with water molecules, which are polar. Thus, one could state that:

"Isopropenylbenzene is practically insoluble in water, making it more compatible with organic solvents."

Understanding the solubility of isopropenylbenzene is crucial for its applications in chemical synthesis and industrial processes, where solvent selection can greatly affect yields and efficiency.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Isopropenylbenzene

Isopropenylbenzene, also known as prop-2-enylbenzene, is a fascinating organic compound with several intriguing properties and applications. Here are some notable characteristics:

  • Structure and Reactivity: Isopropenylbenzene features a unique structural configuration that includes both a vinyl group and a benzene ring, allowing it to participate in various chemical reactions such as polymerization and electrophilic substitution.
  • Industrial Significance: This compound is particularly valuable in the production of specialty chemicals and polymers. It serves as a building block in the synthesis of resins, plastics, and other materials.
  • Synthetic Utility: In synthetic organic chemistry, isopropenylbenzene can act as a versatile intermediate for the preparation of larger, more complex molecules, making it indispensable for researchers and industrial chemists alike.
  • Chemical Properties: Isopropenylbenzene can undergo reactions such as diels-alder cycloadditions, enabling the synthesis of various cyclic compounds, which are essential in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
  • Natural Occurrence: Interestingly, isopropenylbenzene can be found in certain essential oils, contributing to their aromatic profiles and offering potential roles in natural products chemistry.

Due to its versatile nature and applications, isopropenylbenzene continues to be a subject of active research and experimentation in organic chemistry, with scientists exploring new methods to utilize this compound in various fields.

Synonyms
ALPHA-METHYLSTYRENE DIMER
Styrene, alpha-methyl-, dimer
HSDB 6149
Styrene, alphamethyl, dimer
DTXSID2051473
Benzene, (1methylethenyl), dimer
alpha-Methyl Styrene Dimer