Hydroxybenzene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งช
hydroxybenzene
[haษชหdrษksษชหbษnziหn ]
Definition
chemical compound
Hydroxybenzene, also known as phenol, is an aromatic organic compound with the formula C6H5OH. It is a colorless, viscous liquid and possesses a distinct sweet and tarry odor. Hydroxybenzene is widely used in the production of various chemicals and is known for its antiseptic properties.
Synonyms
carbolic acid, hydrophenol, phenol.
Examples of usage
- Hydroxybenzene is used in the synthesis of plastics.
- The antiseptic properties of hydroxybenzene make it effective in certain medications.
- Hydroxybenzene can be found in household disinfectants.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Applications in Industry
- Commonly known as phenol, it's a key ingredient in producing plastics, pharmaceuticals, and detergents.
- Used in the production of important substances like nylon, nylon-6, and epoxy resins.
Health and Safety
- While it is useful, it can be harmful; exposure to high levels may lead to health problems.
- Regulations are in place in many countries to handle this compound safely due to its potential hazards.
Environmental Impact
- Chemical spills can lead to contamination of water sources, requiring careful management and cleanup measures.
- Research has indicated the importance of monitoring environments where industrial uses occur.
Cultural References
- Hydroxybenzene has appeared in discussions about chemistry in popular media, shaping how people view chemicals in daily life.
- Artistic works sometimes use chemical structures as metaphors for complexity and interconnectedness.
Origin of 'hydroxybenzene'
Main points about word origin
- The prefix 'hydro-' means water, while 'oxy-' refers to oxygen, giving clues about the compoundโs structure.
- Benzene is named after the German word 'benzol', which is derived from 'gum benzoin', a resin that has a sweet smell.
The term 'hydroxybenzene' is derived from its structure where a hydroxyl group (โOH) is attached to a benzene ring. The name reflects the compound's functional groups, specifically the hydroxyl group which characterizes alcohols and phenols. Hydroxybenzene was first discovered in the early 19th century when chemists began isolating and studying various organic compounds. It was introduced into organic chemistry vocabulary by Auguste Laurent in 1856, who also made significant contributions to the understanding of aromatic compounds. As research progressed, hydroxybenzene became integral to various industrial processes, including the synthesis of dyes, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. Its antiseptic properties were notably recognized in the late 1800s, leading to its use in medical applications. The name phenol, more commonly used today, originated from the Greek word 'phaino,' meaning 'to shine,' reflecting its early observations in distillates.