Phenylcarbinol is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C8H10O. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˌfɛnəlkɑːrˈbaɪnɒl/. The spelling of phenylcarbinol is a combination of the prefix phenyl- and the suffix -carbinol. Phenyl- refers to a derivative of benzene, while -carbinol denotes an alcohol with the general formula RCOH. Therefore, phenylcarbinol can be described as a benzene derivative with an OH group attached to a carbon atom adjacent to the benzene ring.
Phenylcarbinol is an organic compound that belongs to the class of alcohols. Also known as benzyl alcohol, it is represented by the chemical formula C7H8O. The compound is made up of a phenyl group, which is a six-carbon ring bonded to a hydrogen atom, and a hydroxyl group (-OH), which characterizes it as an alcohol.
Phenylcarbinol can be found naturally in various sources, including fruits such as cherries and apricots. However, it is commonly produced synthetically for commercial purposes. It is a clear liquid that has a mild, pleasant aroma resembling that of bitter almonds.
This compound is widely used as a solvent, owing to its ability to dissolve a range of substances like resins, waxes, and oils. It is frequently employed in the formulation of various personal care products, such as lotions, creams, and cosmetics, as well as in pharmaceutical applications.
In addition to its solvent properties, phenylcarbinol exhibits antimicrobial characteristics, making it a popular ingredient in many antiseptic solutions and disinfectants. It is also utilized as a preservative in certain cosmetic and personal care products to extend their shelf life. Furthermore, phenylcarbinol has applications in the synthesis of various chemicals, including perfumes, dyes, and coatings.
Despite its favorable properties, phenylcarbinol should be handled with care, as it can be toxic when ingested or inhaled in excessive amounts. It's essential to follow safety precautions and guidelines when using or working with this compound.
The word "phenylcarbinol" is derived from the combination of three components: "phenyl", "carb", and "inol".
1. Phenyl: The term "phenyl" originates from the Greek word "phaino" meaning "to appear" or "to show". In chemistry, it refers to a specific chemical structure called a phenyl group, which is a six-carbon benzene ring with a hydrogen atom removed. The phenyl group is commonly represented by the symbol "Ph-".
2. Carb: "Carb" is a common abbreviation for "carbonyl", referring to a functional group composed of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom (C=O). However, in the case of "phenylcarbinol", "carb" is used as an abbreviation for "carbon" instead.