Phenyl alcohol, also known as benzyl alcohol, is a colorless liquid with a pleasant odor. Its chemical formula is C6H5CH2OH. The word "phenyl" is spelled /ˈfiːnɪl/ with the long "ee" sound and the stress on the first syllable. The word "alcohol" is spelled /ˈælkəhɒl/ with the stress on the second syllable and the British English pronunciation of the "o" sound. Phenyl alcohol is often used as a solvent, fragrance, or preservative in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food.
Phenyl alcohol, also known as benzyl alcohol, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H5CH2OH. It belongs to the family of aromatic alcohols and is derived from benzene by replacing one of the hydrogen atoms with a hydroxyl group (-OH).
Phenyl alcohol is a colorless liquid that is slightly soluble in water but readily soluble in most organic solvents. It has a distinct mild, pleasant odor, often described as sweet or floral. Due to its versatile chemical properties, phenyl alcohol finds widespread applications in various industries.
In the pharmaceutical industry, phenyl alcohol is utilized as a preservative for injectable medications and intravenous solutions to prevent bacterial growth. It acts by dehydrating microorganisms, hindering their growth and proliferation. Additionally, its low toxicity makes it safe for use in these products.
Furthermore, phenyl alcohol serves as a fragrance ingredient in perfumes, lotions, and soaps due to its appealing aroma. It is also used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages, providing a slightly sweet and fruity taste.
In laboratory settings, phenyl alcohol is employed as a solvent for numerous reactions, particularly those involving aromatic compounds. Its ability to dissolve both polar and nonpolar substances makes it a suitable choice for various applications.
Overall, phenyl alcohol is a highly versatile compound utilized for its antimicrobial properties, fragrance characteristics, and solvent capabilities in the pharmaceutical, personal care, and laboratory fields.
Phenol.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "phenyl" comes from the Greek word "phaino", meaning "to show" or "to appear". "Phenyl" in organic chemistry refers to a derivative of benzene, a six-carbon ring with alternating double bonds.
The word "alcohol" has Arabic origins, derived from the term "al-kuḥl", which refers to a powdered form of antimony used as a cosmetic eyeliner or as an eyelid compress. Over time, it came to be associated with various substances used as solvents or for medicinal purposes. In chemistry, "alcohol" typically refers to a class of organic compounds characterized by a hydroxyl (-OH) functional group attached to a carbon atom.
The compound "phenyl alcohol" is an aromatic alcohol formed by replacing a hydrogen atom attached to a benzene ring with a hydroxyl group (-OH).