4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid is a compound that has relevance in everyday life due to its applications in various industries. It is used in the pharmaceutical industry as an intermediate in the synthesis of various drugs. Additionally, it is utilized in the production of dyes, perfumes, and other chemicals. Its properties also make it valuable in the field of research and development. Overall, 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid plays a significant role in a wide range of applications that impact our daily lives.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid, a compound with the chemical formula C8H7NO4, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used in the manufacturing of dyes, pigments, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, it is utilized in the synthesis of agrochemicals and as an intermediate in organic chemistry reactions.
In drug and medication applications, 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid has been studied for its potential pharmaceutical properties. It has shown promise as a precursor in the production of certain antihypertensive drugs and antimicrobial agents. Furthermore, research suggests that it may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities, making it a candidate for further drug development in the future.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid is a yellow crystalline solid with a slightly aromatic odor. It has a chemical formula of C8H7NO4 and a molecular weight of approximately 181.15 g/mol.
The molar mass of 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid is comparable to that of common food items such as sucrose (table sugar) and sodium chloride (table salt), which have molar masses of 342.30 g/mol and 58.44 g/mol, respectively. The density of 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid is approximately 1.41 g/cm3, which is similar to the density of table salt (~2.16 g/cm3) and slightly less dense than table sugar (~1.58 g/cm3).
4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid has a melting point of around 177-180°C and a boiling point of approximately 316-318°C. Compared to common food items like butter, which melts around 32-35°C, and water, which boils at 100°C, 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid has significantly higher melting and boiling points.
4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid is sparingly soluble in water, with a solubility of around 0.04 g/L at room temperature. It has a moderate viscosity, similar to that of honey or maple syrup, making it thicker than water but not as viscous as oils. Compared to common food items like salt and sugar, which dissolve readily in water, 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid’s solubility is relatively low.
🏭 Production & Procurement
4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid is typically produced through the nitration of 4-methylbenzoic acid. This process involves the reaction of 4-methylbenzoic acid with a mixture of nitric and sulfuric acids, leading to the formation of the nitro group at the meta position of the benzene ring.
Once synthesized, 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid can be procured in either its solid form or as a solution in various solvents. It is commonly transported in sealed containers to prevent contamination or degradation during transit. The compound is stable under normal storage conditions and should be kept away from heat and direct sunlight.
To ensure the quality and purity of 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid during procurement and transportation, it is essential to handle the compound with care to avoid any potential chemical reactions or physical damage. Proper labeling and documentation are also crucial to comply with safety regulations and facilitate accurate tracking of the compound’s origins and destination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for handling 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid should be taken seriously to prevent any potential harm to individuals. This compound is considered to be harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or in contact with skin. It may cause respiratory irritation, skin irritation, and eye irritation. Therefore, appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat should be worn when working with this chemical. Additionally, this compound should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances to avoid any potential reactions.
The hazard statements for 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid include “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” “May cause respiratory irritation,” and “Harmful if swallowed.” These statements serve as a warning of the potential hazards associated with this compound. It is important to be aware of these hazard statements when working with 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid to ensure proper safety precautions are taken to prevent any harm.
Precautionary statements for handling 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid 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 SWALLOWED: Immediately call a POISON CENTER/doctor.” These precautionary statements outline the necessary steps to take in case of exposure to 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid to minimize any potential harm. It is crucial to follow these statements carefully to ensure the safety of individuals handling this compound.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid is the study of its pharmacological properties and potential as a drug candidate. Researchers may investigate its interaction with biological targets and its potential applications in the treatment of various diseases.
Another area of interest could be the synthesis and characterization of derivatives of 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid. By modifying its chemical structure, researchers can explore the impact of different substitutions on its properties and reactivity.
Furthermore, the environmental fate and behavior of 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid could be a subject of investigation. Researchers may study its degradation pathways, persistence in different environmental compartments, and potential impact on ecosystems.
Lastly, the development of novel synthetic methodologies using 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid as a building block could be explored. By harnessing its unique chemical properties, researchers may discover new pathways for the synthesis of complex organic molecules with potential applications in drug discovery and materials science.
🧪 Related Compounds
One compound similar to 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid based on molecular structure is 3-Nitro-4-methylbenzoic acid. This compound has the same molecular formula and similar functional groups, but the placement of the nitro and methyl groups is reversed.
Another similar compound is 4-Methyl-3-amino benzoic acid. This compound also has a methyl group attached to the benzene ring, but instead of a nitro group, it has an amino group. This results in similar properties and reactivity compared to 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid.
An additional compound with a similar molecular structure is 4-Ethyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid. This compound has the same nitro group attached to the benzene ring, but instead of a methyl group, it has an ethyl group. This substitution results in differences in physical and chemical properties compared to 4-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoic acid.
