How Do You Spell PHENYLACETONE?

Pronunciation: [fˌiːna͡ɪlˈasɪtˌə͡ʊn] (IPA)

Phenylacetone, a chemical compound also known as benzyl methyl ketone, has a peculiar spelling that can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable, "phenyl," is pronounced /ˈfɛnəl/, with the stress on the first syllable and the "ph" being pronounced as an "f" sound. The second syllable, "ac," is pronounced /ˈæk/, and the third syllable, "e," is pronounced /iː/. The fourth syllable, "tone," is pronounced /toʊn/, with the stress on the second syllable. Therefore, the spelling of "phenylacetone" follows the IPA phonetic transcription of its pronunciation.

PHENYLACETONE Meaning and Definition

1. Phenylacetone, also known as phenyl-2-propanone or benzyl methyl ketone, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C9H10O. It is classified as a ketone and belongs to the aromatic group of organic compounds. Phenylacetone is a clear to pale yellow liquid with a distinctive sweet, fruity odor.

   Dictionary definition:

   Phenylacetone is an organic compound characterized by a ketone functional group attached to a phenyl group. It is a colorless to yellowish liquid that possesses a fruity aroma. Structurally, it consists of a benzene ring (a six-membered carbon ring with alternating double bonds) and an acetone moiety (comprising a carbon atom bonded to a carbonyl group and two other alkyl groups).

   Phenylacetone finds application as a precursor or intermediate in the synthesis of numerous organic compounds, pharmaceuticals, and illicit substances, including amphetamines and synthetic opioids. Due to its potential use in the illicit drug trade, its possession and manufacturing are restricted in many countries.

   In addition to its synthetic applications, phenylacetone also has industrial uses, such as in the production of perfumes, flavors, and pharmaceutical additives. Its distinctive fruity odor contributes to its utilization in the fragrance industry.

   Overall, phenylacetone is a versatile organic compound, employed for various purposes ranging from industrial applications to illicit drug synthesis, while it is also subject to legal restrictions due to its potential misuse and abuse.

Etymology of PHENYLACETONE

The word "phenylacetone" has a compound etymology.

The term "phenyl" comes from the Greek word "phaino", meaning "to show" or "to appear", and represents a benzene ring, which has six carbon atoms and six hydrogen atoms.

The term "acetone" originates from the Latin word "acetum", meaning "vinegar", and the Greek word "ōnē", meaning "body" or "substance". "Acetone" refers to a colorless liquid compound with a ketone functional group, which consists of three carbon atoms bonded to an oxygen atom.

By combining "phenyl" and "acetone", the term "phenylacetone" is formed to describe a specific organic compound.