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m-Cresol, o-Cresol, p-Cresol

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Identification
Molecular formula
C7H8O
CAS number
108-39-4, 95-48-7, 106-44-5
IUPAC name
m-cresol;o-cresol;p-cresol
State
State

m-Cresol, o-Cresol, and p-Cresol can all be either solids or liquids at room temperature, depending on purity and specific conditions. Typically, they exist as volatile solids or slightly viscous liquids and are known for having a characteristic "phenolic" odor.

Melting point (Celsius)
11.80
Melting point (Kelvin)
284.95
Boiling point (Celsius)
203.90
Boiling point (Kelvin)
477.05
General information
Molecular weight
108.14g/mol
Molar mass
108.1400g/mol
Density
1.0320g/cm3
Appearence

m-Cresol is a colorless to yellowish liquid with a tar-like odor. o-Cresol is generally a white crystalline solid or liquid, tending to turn yellowish to brown on exposure to air. p-Cresol typically appears as a colorless-to-yellowish solid. These compounds can darken in color upon exposure to air due to oxidation.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Cresols

The cresols, namely m-cresol, o-cresol, and p-cresol, are organic compounds that present interesting solubility characteristics due to their phenolic structure. Here's an overview of their solubility:

  • Water Solubility: All three cresols exhibit moderate solubility in water. The solubility can be attributed to the hydroxyl group (-OH) which can engage in hydrogen bonding with water molecules.
    • o-cresol: Has a solubility of around 1 g/100 mL.
    • m-cresol: Slightly lower solubility, usually considered around 0.7 g/100 mL.
    • p-cresol: Also around 0.5 g/100 mL, indicating a trend in decreasing solubility with increasing distance of the hydroxyl group from other substituents.
  • Solvent Preference: The cresols are more soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, and chloroform, which can dissolve their hydrophobic aromatic rings more effectively.
  • Temperature Dependence: Their solubility in water increases with temperature—this is a common trait seen in many organic compounds, where increased kinetic energy in warmer conditions facilitates dissolution.
  • Environmental Impact: Due to their moderate solubility, cresols can contaminate water sources, necessitating careful handling and environmental considerations.

Overall, while the cresols display some solubility in water, their greater affinity for organic solvents highlights their behavior in various environmental and laboratory settings. Understanding these solubility dynamics is key for applications ranging from chemical synthesis to environmental science.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Cresol Compounds

Cresols are a fascinating group of chemical compounds that are derivatives of phenol, and they exist in three isomeric forms: m-cresol, o-cresol, and p-cresol. Each isomer varies based on the position of the methyl group on the benzene ring, which significantly influences its chemical properties and applications.

Cresol Isomers

  • m-Cresol: The methyl group at the meta position makes this isomer particularly effective as an antiseptic and disinfectant. It is often used in the production of resins and plastics.
  • o-Cresol: Known for its distinct, pleasant odor, o-cresol is used in the synthesis of various chemicals and is regarded for its effective solvent properties.
  • p-Cresol: This isomer is widely recognized for its role in the manufacturing of antioxidants, further utilized in the production of lubricants and rubber.

Applications and Uses

The versatility of cresols can be seen across various industries:

  • Medical and Pharmaceuticals: Used as antiseptics in certain formulations.
  • Chemical Synthesis: Integral in producing other chemicals like phenolic resins.
  • Agriculture: Employed in making herbicides and pesticides.

Health and Safety Considerations

While cresols have many beneficial uses, handling them requires caution due to their toxic properties. It's important to observe the following:

  • Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with cresols.
  • Ensure proper ventilation in spaces where cresols are used to avoid inhalation risks.

In conclusion, the cresols serve as a prime example of how slight variations in chemical structure can lead to differing properties and applications. Their utility in industry and lab environments showcases the beauty and complexity of organic chemistry.

Synonyms
Methylphenol
NSC21061
MFCD00151099
NSC-21061
2-methylphenol;3-methylphenol;4-methylphenol
cresolum
o(m And p)-Cresol
2-methylphenol; 3-methylphenol; 4-methylphenol
SCHEMBL6243247
CHEMBL1410808
QTWJRLJHJPIABL-UHFFFAOYSA-N
HY-B0969
NCI21061
CCG-36795
NCGC00013272
AKOS037515481
CS-4454
NCGC00013272-02
NCGC00096391-01
NCI60_001764
A806346