Paracresol is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C7H8O. Its name is derived from the fact that it is a derivative of cresol, which is a type of aromatic organic compound. The spelling of paracresol is based on its pronunciation, which is /ˌpærəˈkriːsɒl/ (pa-ruh-kree-sol) in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The prefix "para-" indicates the position of the methyl group on the benzene ring, while "cresol" denotes the parent compound. Paracresol is primarily used as a disinfectant and preservative in various industrial applications.
Paracresol is an organic compound that is classified as a cresol derivative. It is in the form of a colorless or pale yellow liquid with a distinct phenolic odor. It is primarily used in the manufacturing and production of various chemicals and materials.
In terms of its chemical structure, paracresol can be described as a benzene ring with a hydroxyl group (-OH) and a methyl group (-CH3) attached to it at the para position. It is also known as 4-methylphenol. Paracresol is soluble in alcohol, ether, and other organic solvents but has limited solubility in water.
Paracresol has a variety of applications in industries such as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and rubber processing. It is commonly used as an intermediate or raw material in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including antioxidants, disinfectants, and resins.
In medicine, paracresol finds use as an antiseptic agent and preservative in certain vaccines and medicinal products. It has antimicrobial properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. Additionally, paracresol can also be utilized as a stabilizer in fuel additives and as a flavoring agent in food products under specific regulations.
Despite its diverse industrial applications, paracresol should be handled with care due to its potential hazards. It is considered toxic when ingested, inhaled or in contact with the skin, and can cause irritation, burns, or serious health issues to humans and animals. Proper safety precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and equipment, should be followed when working with paracresol to ensure safe handling and usage.
One of the three isomeric cresols, a solid melting at 36° C. and boiling at 198° C.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "paracresol" has its etymology rooted in the field of chemistry. It is derived from a combination of two parts: "para" and "cresol".
1. "Para" - In chemistry, "para" is a prefix used to indicate the position of a substituent on a benzene ring. It denotes that the substituent is located on the carbon atoms in the para position, which means directly opposite to the functional group or another substituent on the ring.
2. "Cresol" - Cresol refers to a type of organic compound that belongs to the phenol group. It is a derivative of benzene in which a hydroxyl (-OH) group is attached to one of the carbon atoms of the benzene ring, with different isomers possible. Cresols are used in various industrial applications, such as disinfectants, solvents, and as intermediates in chemical synthesis.