Quinoline is a word commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry, and its pronunciation can sometimes be tricky. The word is spelled [kwɪnəˈliːn], with an initial "Qu" sound, followed by a short i sound, and a stressed second syllable. The final two syllables have a long e sound, followed by a short i and n sound at the end. The correct pronunciation is essential in the field of medicine since it is a chemical compound used in several drugs in the pharmacopoeia. Understanding the proper spelling and pronunciation of quinoline is crucial for medical professionals who work with this agent.
Quinoline is a colorless or pale yellow organic compound that is classified as a heterocyclic aromatic compound. It is composed of a benzene ring fused with a pyrimidine ring, having molecular formula C9H7N. Quinoline is considered the parent compound for a group of chemical compounds known as quinolines.
In terms of its chemical properties, quinoline is a weak base with a pKa value of approximately 4.9. It is sparingly soluble in water but dissolves readily in organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and ether. Quinoline is also characterized by its distinctive odor, which has been described as being similar to that of coal tar.
Quinoline finds numerous applications in various industries. One of its primary uses is in the production of medicinal drugs, where it acts as an intermediate compound for synthesizing a wide range of pharmaceuticals, including antimalarial drugs and anti-inflammatory agents. Additionally, quinoline derivatives have been utilized as dyes, herbicides, polymer additives, and as components in corrosion inhibitors, lubricants, and pesticides.
From a health and safety standpoint, quinoline is considered to be a toxic substance, and prolonged exposure to high concentrations of quinoline vapor or dust may cause damage to the respiratory system, eyes, skin, and liver. Therefore, appropriate protective measures should be taken during its handling and usage.
The word "quinoline" was derived from the Latin word "quinque", meaning "five", and the Greek word "oleum", meaning "oil". The term was coined in 1848 by August Wilhelm von Hofmann, a German chemist, to describe the oily, yellowish liquid that he had extracted from coal tar. The name "quinoline" was chosen because of the compound's structure, which includes a benzene ring fused with a pyridine ring, resulting in a structure with five carbon atoms.