C6H6 Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งช
C6H6
[หbษnziหn ]
Definition
chemical compound
C6H6, commonly known as benzene, is a colorless, flammable liquid with a sweet odor and a distinct taste. It is one of the simplest aromatic hydrocarbons and is widely used as a solvent and an intermediate in the production of other chemicals.
Synonyms
aromatic hydrocarbon, benzene, phenyl.
Examples of usage
- Benzene is used in the manufacture of plastics.
- The solvent was found to contain high levels of benzene.
- Benzene exposure can pose health risks to workers.
- Benzene is a foundational compound in organic chemistry.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Industrial Uses
- Benzene is a key building block in the production of various chemicals, such as styrene and phenol, which are used in plastics and resins.
- The chemical is also utilized in the manufacturing of detergents, dyes, and synthetic fibers, reflecting its importance in everyday products.
Health and Safety
- Exposure to benzene can be harmful; it's linked to health issues like leukemia, making awareness crucial for workers in chemical industries.
- Proper handling and storage of this substance are emphasized in safety regulations to mitigate health risks, highlighting the importance of occupational safety.
Environmental Impact
- Benzene is present in tobacco smoke and motor vehicle emissions, contributing to air pollution and impacting respiratory health.
- Cleanup efforts for benzene spills are essential as it can contaminate groundwater, illustrating the need for environmental regulations.
Scientific Significance
- Benzene was one of the first aromatic compounds studied, and its understanding paved the way for advancements in organic chemistry.
- The discovery of its cyclic structure influenced the understanding of chemical bonding, showcasing the elegance of molecular architecture.
Origin of 'C6H6'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'benzene' comes from 'benzoic acid', which was derived from the gum benzoin, historically used for formal perfumes.
- In 1865, August Kekulรฉ, a German chemist, proposed the ring structure of benzene, revolutionizing organic chemistry.
The term 'benzene' is derived from 'gum benzoin', which is a resin obtained from the bark of certain trees. The compound was first isolated in 1825 by Scottish scientist Michael Faraday. He discovered it through the distillation of whale oil and named it 'bicarburet of hydrogen'. The name 'benzene' was proposed by the German chemist August Wilhelm von Hofmann in 1855, in reference to the name of the compoundโs source, benzoin. Benzene became known as an aromatic hydrocarbon due to its distinct, pleasant fragrance, characteristic of many natural substances. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the chemical structure and properties of benzene were extensively studied, leading to its recognition as a significant industrial compound. Its significance in the field of organic chemistry cannot be overstated, as it paved the way for the development of further studies on hydrocarbons and their derivatives.