XYLENES Meaning and
Definition
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Xylenes are a group of volatile organic compounds that consist of three isomers: ortho-xylene, meta-xylene, and para-xylene. They are colorless liquids with a sweet odor and are primarily derived from petroleum. Xylenes are widely used as solvents in various industrial applications, including in the production of plastics, rubber, dyes, textiles, paints, adhesives, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals.
The three isomers of xylenes have similar chemical properties but differ in the positions of the methyl groups on the benzene ring. Para-xylene, the most commercially important isomer, is primarily used in the production of terephthalic acid, a key precursor for manufacturing polyester fibers and plastic bottles. Ortho-xylene and meta-xylene find applications as solvents and as intermediates in chemical synthesis.
Xylenes are flammable and should be handled and stored with appropriate safety measures. They have a moderate level of toxicity and can have harmful effects on human health if inhaled or ingested. Exposure to high concentrations of xylenes can cause eye and respiratory tract irritation, dizziness, headache, nausea, and in severe cases, central nervous system depression.
Given their wide range of industrial applications, xylenes are produced in large quantities worldwide. However, efforts have been made to reduce their environmental impact due to their volatile nature and potential for groundwater contamination.
Etymology of XYLENES
The word xylenes is derived from the Greek word xyl(o) meaning wood. It refers to a group of isomeric hydrocarbons derived from coal tar or petroleum, which can be found in wood tar. The suffix -ene indicates that it is an unsaturated hydrocarbon. Therefore, xylenes literally means hydrocarbons derived from wood.
