2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol, a chemical compound commonly used in the production of dyes and pigments, holds relevance to everyday life due to its widespread application in various industries. Specifically, it serves as a key component in the manufacturing of colored materials, such as textiles, plastics, and paints. Its presence in these products contributes to the vibrant hues and visuals that individuals encounter on a regular basis in their clothing, household items, and surroundings. Additionally, 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol plays a role in the development of pharmaceuticals and agricultural chemicals, further highlighting its importance in diverse sectors that impact daily life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol is used in the commercial and industrial sectors for various applications. One of the primary uses of this compound is as a precursor in the synthesis of certain dyes and pigments. It is also utilized in the production of fungicides and herbicides.
In addition to its commercial and industrial applications, 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol has potential drug and medication applications. This compound has been studied for its antimicrobial properties and has shown promise as a potential ingredient in topical antimicrobial formulations. Research is ongoing to explore its potential use in these areas.
Overall, 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol plays a significant role in the commercial and industrial sectors, particularly in the production of dyes, pigments, fungicides, and herbicides. Its potential applications in the pharmaceutical industry are also being explored, particularly in the development of antimicrobial formulations. Further research and studies are needed to fully understand and harness the capabilities of this compound in various fields.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol is a yellow crystalline solid with a slight odor. It is sparingly soluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.
The molar mass of 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol is 153.12 g/mol, and its density is 1.337 g/cm³. In comparison, common food items like sugar and salt have higher molar masses and lower densities than 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol.
The melting point of 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol is 114-116 °C, and its boiling point is 281 °C. These values are higher than those of common food items like butter and chocolate.
2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol is slightly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. In comparison, common food items like honey and syrup are highly soluble in water and have higher viscosities.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol is primarily produced through a chemical reaction involving the nitration of 2-methylphenol. This process typically involves the use of sulfuric and nitric acids as reagents, resulting in the formation of 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol as the final product. The reaction is carefully controlled to ensure high purity and yield.
Once produced, 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol can be procured through specialized chemical suppliers or manufacturers. The compound is typically available in both liquid and solid forms, depending on the intended application. Due to its potentially hazardous nature, care must be taken when handling and transporting 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol to ensure the safety of personnel and the environment.
Transportation of 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol is typically carried out in accordance with strict regulations governing the shipment of hazardous chemicals. The compound may be packaged in sealed containers, such as drums or bottles, and transported using approved carriers that comply with all relevant safety standards. Proper labeling and documentation are essential to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol to its intended destination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol must be taken seriously due to its potential hazards. This chemical is flammable and may cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. It is important to handle 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol with care in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of its vapors, which can be harmful to respiratory health. Protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat should be worn when working with this compound to prevent any accidents or chemical exposure.
Hazard statements for 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol outline the potential risks associated with this chemical. These statements include: “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” It is important to be aware of these hazards when handling 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol to take necessary precautions and minimize the risk of harm to oneself and others.
Precautionary statements for 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol provide guidance on how to safely handle this chemical. These statements include: “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection,” “IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing,” and “IF exposed or concerned: Get medical advice/attention.” Following these precautionary statements is crucial to ensuring the safe and proper use of 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol and to mitigate any potential risks to health and safety.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol could involve its environmental fate and behavior, particularly its degradation pathways in different types of environments. Understanding how this compound interacts with various organisms and ecosystems can provide insights into potential environmental risks and appropriate mitigation strategies.
Another research avenue could focus on the synthesis and development of new derivatives of 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol with enhanced properties or applications. By modifying the chemical structure of this compound, researchers can explore its potential as a precursor for novel drugs, pesticides, or materials with specific functionalities. This could lead to the discovery of compounds with improved efficacy, reduced toxicity, or other desirable traits.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol is 3-Methyl-4-nitrophenol. This compound has a similar molecular structure, with a methyl group attached to the third carbon atom of the phenol ring instead of the second carbon atom. The presence of the nitro group at the fourth carbon atom of the phenol ring remains the same, leading to similar chemical properties between the two compounds.
Another similar compound is 2-Ethyl-4-nitrophenol. In this compound, an ethyl group is attached to the second carbon atom of the phenol ring instead of a methyl group. The nitro group is still located at the fourth carbon atom of the phenol ring, resulting in comparable characteristics to 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol. The presence of the ethyl group may lead to slight differences in reactivity and physical properties compared to the original compound.
Similarly, 2,4-Dimethyl-4-nitrophenol is a compound with two methyl groups attached to the phenol ring at the second and fourth carbon atoms. This structural arrangement alters the steric hindrance around the nitro group, potentially impacting the compound’s chemical behavior. Despite these modifications, the presence of the nitro group in the ortho position to the hydroxyl group maintains some similarities to 2-Methyl-4-nitrophenol.
