Pronunciation: [ˈanθɹɐkwˌɪnɒn] (IPA) 
Anthraquinone is a chemical compound used in the production of dyes and pigments. The word "anthraquinone" is spelled phonetically as ænθrəkwɪnoʊn. The letter "a" in the beginning is pronounced as "æ" like in the word "cat" followed by the "n" sound. The "th" sound in the middle of the word is pronounced as θ similar to the word "think". The letter "q" is followed by the "w" sound and ends with the "on" sound.
Anthraquinone is a highly aromatic and crystalline organic compound with the molecular formula C14H8O2. It belongs to a class of compounds known as quinones, which are characterized by their unique bicyclic structure consisting of two fused benzene rings with a ketone group (C=O) attached to one of the rings.
Anthraquinone is obtained primarily from coal tar, but it can also be synthesized by various methods. It exists in several isomeric forms, including 1,2-, 1,4-, and 2,6-anthraquinone, each exhibiting slightly different physical and chemical properties.
This compound is widely used in the manufacturing of dyes, pigments, and colorants. Its intense coloration and ability to form stable complexes with metals make it a popular choice for producing various shades of red, orange, purple, and blue in the textile, printing, and paper industries. Additionally, anthraquinone finds application as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, including drugs used to treat heart conditions and certain cancers.
Anthraquinone possesses certain biological activities as well. It has been found to exhibit antimicrobial properties against various microorganisms, making it useful in the development of antimicrobial agents. Furthermore, anthraquinone is known to possess laxative effects when ingested orally, frequently used in traditional herbal medicine for treating constipation.
In summary, anthraquinone is an aromatic organic compound with a distinctive quinone structure. Its versatility and widespread applicability in industries such as dye synthesis, pharmaceuticals, and antimicrobial agent development have made it a valuable compound with significant commercial and medicinal importance.
A yellow substance obtained by the action of glacial acetic acid, potassium bichromate, and anthracene; used in the manufacture of alizarin and as a reagent.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Anthraquinone" is derived from the combination of two components: "anthra" and "quinone".
"Anthra" comes from the Greek word "ánthos", which means "flower". This refers to a compound called anthracene, which is a coal-tar derivative that was first isolated from certain types of coal tar. Anthracene has a flower-like shape, hence the use of "anthra" in the name.
"Quinone" is derived from the Latin word "quinquinus", which means "five-unit". Quinones are a class of organic compounds that feature a characteristic five-carbon atom structure called a quinone ring.
Therefore, "anthraquinone" refers to a compound that is derived from anthracene and has a quinone ring structure.
