The spelling of the word "aromatic compound" is fairly straightforward, with each syllable pronounced as expected. The first syllable "a-ro-" is pronounced /əˈrɒmətɪk/, with a short schwa sound followed by a stress on the "ro" sound. The second syllable "-mat-" is pronounced /ˈkɒmpaʊnd/, with a shorter stress on the "mat" sound than on the "com" sound that follows it. Altogether, the word is pronounced /əˈrɒmətɪk ˈkɒmpaʊnd/ and refers to a type of organic compound with a characteristic aroma.
An aromatic compound, also known as an arene, is a type of organic compound that possesses a specific characteristic of chemical stability and unique aromaticity. Aromatic compounds are known for their pleasant and distinctive aromas. They represent a diverse group of chemical substances, most commonly consisting of carbon and hydrogen atoms arranged in a specific manner along a conjugated ring system.
The distinguishing feature of an aromatic compound is the presence of an aromatic ring, which consists of a conjugated system of alternating double and single bonds. This cyclic structure provides exceptional stability due to delocalization of π-electrons, resulting in lowered reactivity and resonance stabilization. The phenomenon of aromaticity arises from the π-electrons being spread over the entire ring system, promoting a uniform distribution of electron density.
Aromatic compounds occur naturally and can be found in a wide range of sources, such as plants, flowers, fruits, and essential oils. These compounds are widely used in various industries, including perfumery, pharmaceuticals, and organic synthesis. One well-known example of an aromatic compound is benzene, which is a building block for many other aromatic derivatives.
Aside from their pleasant odors, aromatic compounds also possess important physical and chemical properties, such as high boiling and melting points, insolubility in water, and resistance to oxidation. The unique properties of aromatic compounds have greatly contributed to their extensive utilization in numerous applications across various scientific fields.
Closed-chain compound.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "aromatic" comes from the Greek word "arōma" (ἄρωμα), meaning "spice" or "fragrance". "Aroma" originally referred to the pleasant smell of certain plants and spices. In the field of chemistry, the term "aromatic compound" specifically refers to a type of organic compound that possesses a distinctive, pleasant odor. Although the origin of the term "compound" comes from Latin, the specific etymology of "aromatic compound" is derived from the Greek word "arōma".