RESORCINOL Meaning and
Definition
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Resorcinol is an organic compound that is classified as a dihydroxybenzene. It is a white crystalline solid with a sweet odor and is soluble in water, alcohol, and some organic solvents. The chemical formula of resorcinol is C6H6O2, and its molecular weight is 110.11 g/mol.
In terms of its uses, resorcinol has a wide range of applications across different industries. It is commonly employed in the production of various products such as polymers, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and agrochemicals. Resorcinol is a key ingredient in the manufacturing of rubber and other polymer materials, as it acts as a cross-linking agent that enhances the durability, flexibility, and adhesive properties of these materials. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is utilized in the formulation of medications for treating skin conditions, such as acne and psoriasis, owing to its antiseptic and disinfectant properties. Additionally, resorcinol possesses UV-light absorbing characteristics, making it an essential component in sunscreens and other skincare products. It is also used in hair dyes and hair treatment products, as it aids in dye retention and color development.
Despite its numerous applications, resorcinol should be handled with caution as it can be toxic. Inhaling or ingesting high concentrations of resorcinol may lead to respiratory issues, gastrointestinal complications, and even liver or kidney damage. Therefore, appropriate safety measures should be followed when working with this substance.
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1. (U.S.) Resorcin, metadihydroxybenzene, C6H8O2; a diatomic phenol obtained from sodium benzenemetadisulphonic acid by heating with sodium hydroxide; a white crystalline powder soluble in water; employed internally for the relief of nausea, asthma, whooping cough, and diarrhea in doses of gr. 5-10 (0.3-0.6), but chiefly as an external antiseptic in psoriasis, eczema, seborrhea, and ringworm. Pyrocatechin and hydroquinone are isomers of resorcinol. 2. A compound of equal parts of resorcinol (1) and iodoform, a brown powder; employed as an antiseptic dusting powder for wounds, ulcers, etc., and in 5 to 15 per cent. ointment in psoriasis and other skin diseases.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for RESORCINOL
- eesorcinol
- desorcinol
- fesorcinol
- tesorcinol
- 5esorcinol
- 4esorcinol
- rwsorcinol
- rssorcinol
- rdsorcinol
- rrsorcinol
- r4sorcinol
- r3sorcinol
- reaorcinol
- rezorcinol
- rexorcinol
- redorcinol
- reeorcinol
- reworcinol
- resircinol
- resordinol
- resorcimol
- Resorpinon
- resilcinol
- recorcimol
Etymology of RESORCINOL
The word "resorcinol" derives from the chemical compound it represents, which was originally named resorcin. The term resorcin itself was coined in the mid-19th century by combining the Latin word "resorcinum" with "resin" due to its initial extraction from various resins. The Latin word "resorcinum" can be traced back to the German word "Resorsaure" and the Greek word "rhēssa", both meaning "madder root", as the compound was also found in the roots of the madder plant. Over time, the suffix "-ol" was added, indicating that resorcinol is an alcohol derivative of resorcin.
