2-Methylbiphenyl is a chemical compound that is commonly used in various industrial processes, including the production of plastics, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. Despite its industrial applications, 2-Methylbiphenyl may also have relevance to everyday life due to its potential presence in environmental contaminants. Studies have shown that exposure to 2-Methylbiphenyl may have adverse health effects, making it important for individuals to be aware of potential sources of exposure and take necessary precautions to minimize risk.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2-Methylbiphenyl, a chemical compound with the molecular formula C13H10, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a heat transfer fluid in high-temperature applications due to its high thermal stability and resistance to degradation. Additionally, 2-Methylbiphenyl is utilized as a solvent in the manufacturing of pesticides, plastics, and other chemical compounds.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, 2-Methylbiphenyl is not commonly utilized. However, research has shown potential for its use in pharmaceuticals as a building block for synthesizing more complex organic molecules. Further studies are needed to explore the potential medicinal properties of 2-Methylbiphenyl and its derivatives in drug development processes.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-Methylbiphenyl is a colorless liquid with a faint, aromatic odor. It is slightly soluble in water, but soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone.
The molar mass of 2-Methylbiphenyl is approximately 142.21 g/mol, with a density of about 0.987 g/cm³. In comparison to common food items, such as sugar (molar mass of 342.3 g/mol) and vegetable oil (density of 0.92 g/cm³), 2-Methylbiphenyl has a lower molar mass and a higher density.
The melting point of 2-Methylbiphenyl is around -36°C, while the boiling point is approximately 256°C. Compared to common food items like butter (melting point of 32-35°C) and water (boiling point of 100°C), 2-Methylbiphenyl has a much lower melting point and a higher boiling point.
2-Methylbiphenyl is sparingly soluble in water and has a relatively low viscosity. In comparison to common food items like salt (soluble in water) and honey (high viscosity), 2-Methylbiphenyl has lower solubility in water and lower viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2-Methylbiphenyl is typically produced through a Friedel-Crafts alkylation reaction between biphenyl and methanol in the presence of a Lewis acid catalyst, such as aluminum chloride. This process results in the formation of 2-Methylbiphenyl as the main product, with high selectivity and yield.
2-Methylbiphenyl can be procured from chemical suppliers that specialize in aromatic compounds. It is commonly available in both liquid and solid forms, depending on the specific requirements of the end user. The compound can be transported in sealed containers or drums to prevent any leaks or spills during transit.
When procuring 2-Methylbiphenyl, it is important to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and safety guidelines for handling and storage. Proper labeling and documentation should be provided by the supplier to ensure safe transportation and storage of the compound. Additionally, it is advisable to work with experienced chemical handling personnel to avoid any potential risks associated with the use of 2-Methylbiphenyl.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2-Methylbiphenyl include the potential for skin and eye irritation upon contact. It is important to handle this chemical in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhalation of vapors. In case of ingestion or inhalation, seek medical attention immediately.
Hazard statements for 2-Methylbiphenyl include “Causes skin and eye irritation” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” It is important to wear appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, when handling this chemical. Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes, and wash thoroughly after handling.
Precautionary statements for 2-Methylbiphenyl include wearing protective gloves, clothing, and eye protection when handling this chemical. Store in a well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and open flames. In case of accidental exposure, rinse skin or eyes thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 2-Methylbiphenyl lies in understanding its environmental fate and transport mechanisms. This may involve investigating its behavior in various environmental compartments, such as soil, air, and water, as well as its potential for bioaccumulation in living organisms.
Furthermore, studies on the toxicological effects of 2-Methylbiphenyl are warranted to assess its potential risks to human health and the environment. This could include examining its acute and chronic toxicity, as well as its mode of action and potential metabolic pathways in organisms.
Additionally, research on the synthesis and derivatization of 2-Methylbiphenyl derivatives could provide valuable insights into the relationship between chemical structure and biological activity. This may lead to the development of new compounds with enhanced properties for various applications, such as in the pharmaceutical or agrochemical industries.
🧪 Related Compounds
In the realm of similar compounds to 2-Methylbiphenyl lies 3-Methylbiphenyl, a closely related molecule that differs only in the placement of the methyl group on one of the benzene rings. By relocating the methyl group on the biphenyl structure, the overall molecular properties and reactivity of 3-Methylbiphenyl can be distinctly different from its 2-Methylbiphenyl counterpart. This slight structural variation opens up a range of possibilities for studying the effects of methyl group position on the behavior of biphenyl derivatives in various chemical reactions and applications.
Another compound of interest within the realm of biphenyl derivatives is 4-Methylbiphenyl, which shares the same molecular formula as 2-Methylbiphenyl but has the methyl group located on a different benzene ring. This positional isomerism can lead to differences in physical properties, such as melting point and solubility, as well as reactivity in chemical reactions. Comparing the behavior of 4-Methylbiphenyl to that of its 2-Methylbiphenyl and 3-Methylbiphenyl counterparts provides valuable insights into the role of structural isomerism in dictating the properties and behavior of organic compounds.
