Phenol
Phenol, also known as carbolic acid, is an aromaticorganic compound with the molecular formula C6H5OH. It is a white crystallinesolid that is volatile. The molecule consists of a phenyl group (-C6H5) bonded to a hydroxyl group (-OH). It is mildly acidic, but requires careful handling due to its propensity to cause chemical burns.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C6H6O |
| Molar mass | 94.11 g mol−1 |
| Appearance | Transparent crystalline solid |
| Odor | Sweet and tarry |
| Density | 1.07 g/cm3 |
| Melting point | 40.5 °C (104.9 °F; 313.6 K) |
| Boiling point | 181.7 °C (359.1 °F; 454.8 K) |
| Solubility in water | 8.3 g/100 mL (20 °C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | 9.95 (in water), |
| λmax | 270.75 nm |
| Dipole moment | 1.224 D |
| Industry | Application |
|---|---|
| Plastic | Its conversion to precursors to plastics |
| Cosmetics | Phenol derivatives are also used in the preparation of cosmetics including sunscreens, hair and skin lightening preparations. |
| Paint | It is a component of industrial paint strippers used in the aviation industry for the removal of epoxy, polyurethane and other chemically resistant coatings. |
