PHENYLMETHANE Meaning and
Definition
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Phenylmethane, also commonly known as toluene, is an organic compound with a chemical formula C6H5CH3. It belongs to a class of compounds known as aromatic hydrocarbons, characterized by a benzene ring linked to a methyl group. Phenylmethane is a colorless liquid that possesses a sweet and characteristic odor.
Phenylmethane is primarily used as an industrial solvent due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances, making it an essential component in paint thinners, lacquers, and adhesives. Additionally, it serves as a precursor in the production of other chemicals, such as benzene, which is used to synthesize various polymers, resins, and dyes. It also finds application as a fuel additive and blending component in gasoline.
In terms of its toxicity, phenylmethane can have harmful effects on human health. Inhalation or prolonged exposure to high concentrations of the compound may cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, and nausea. It is flammable and can form explosive mixtures when combined with air, thus requiring careful handling and storage.
Overall, phenylmethane (toluene) is a versatile organic compound widely used in industry for its solvent properties and as a starting material for the production of various chemicals. However, its potential health risks and flammability necessitate proper precautions during its use.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PHENYLMETHANE
- phenylmethcne
- phenylmetha.e
- phenylmethafe
- phenylmethale
- phenylmethaoe
- phenylmethanu
- phenylmethanm
- phenylmethana
- phenylmethang
- ph enylmethane
- phe nylmethane
- phen ylmethane
- pheny lmethane
- phenyl methane
- phenylm ethane
- phenylme thane
- phenylmet hane
- phenylmeth ane
- phenylmetha ne
- phenylmethan e
Etymology of PHENYLMETHANE
The word "phenylmethane" is a compound word with two parts: "phenyl" and "methane".
The term "phenyl" is derived from the Greek word "phaino", meaning "to appear" or "to shine". It refers to the benzene ring, which consists of six carbon atoms with alternating double bonds.
The term "methane" comes from the Greek word "methy", meaning "wine", and "alky", meaning "alcohol". It refers to the simplest hydrocarbon compound, which contains only one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms.
In the case of "phenylmethane", the term is used to describe a compound where a phenyl group is attached to a methane molecule. It represents a specific chemical structure combining the properties of both components.
