The physical properties of Hydroxybenzene (Phenol) include the following:
- Melting Point: The melting point of Hydroxybenzene is approximately 40.9°C (105.6°F). This is the temperature at which it changes from a solid to a liquid state.
- Boiling Point: The boiling point of Hydroxybenzene is approximately 181.7°C (359.1°F). This is the temperature at which it changes from a liquid to a gas state.
- Density: The density of Hydroxybenzene is around 1.07 g/cm³. This value indicates the mass of the substance per unit volume.
- Solubility: Hydroxybenzene is soluble in water to a limited extent. It forms a clear solution with water, but its solubility decreases as the temperature decreases.
- Odor: Hydroxybenzene has a distinct, sweet, and medicinal odor. It is often described as having a phenolic or carbolic scent.
- Appearance: Hydroxybenzene is a colorless to light brown crystalline solid at room temperature. It can appear as white or slightly pink crystals or as a viscous liquid.
- Vapor Pressure: The vapor pressure of Hydroxybenzene is relatively high, indicating its volatility. It readily vaporizes at room temperature.
It’s important to note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific conditions and purity of the Hydroxybenzene sample.
How does Hydroxybenzene differ from other aromatic compounds?
Hydroxybenzene, also known as Phenol, has some distinctive characteristics that differentiate it from other aromatic compounds.
Here are a few ways in which Hydroxybenzene differs from other aromatic compounds:
- Functional Group: Hydroxybenzene contains a hydroxyl (-OH) functional group attached to a benzene ring. This hydroxyl group imparts unique properties to Hydroxybenzene, such as its ability to form hydrogen bonds and participate in various chemical reactions.
- Reactivity: The presence of the hydroxyl group in Hydroxybenzene makes it more reactive than simple aromatic compounds like benzene. chemical DBU phenol salt The hydroxyl group can undergo reactions such as hydrogen bonding, acid-base reactions, and nucleophilic substitution reactions, which are not typically observed in benzene.
- Solubility: Hydroxybenzene exhibits higher solubility in water compared to other aromatic compounds due to the presence of the hydroxyl group. The hydroxyl group can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, enabling Hydroxybenzene to dissolve to some extent.
- Acidity: Hydroxybenzene is more acidic than most other aromatic compounds. The hydroxyl group can donate a proton (H+) to form a phenoxide ion, making Hydroxybenzene a weak acid. This acidity is a result of the stabilization of the phenoxide ion through resonance in the aromatic ring.
- Odor: Hydroxybenzene has a distinct odor that is often described as phenolic or medicinal. This odor is different from the typical aromatic smell associated with other aromatic compounds.
It’s important to note that while Hydroxybenzene has unique properties due to the hydroxyl group, it is still classified as an aromatic compound because it contains a benzene ring. However, the presence of the hydroxyl group sets it apart from other simple aromatic compounds like benzene or toluene.
